Annette Hilbourn Tatum

Annette Hilbourn Tatum, affectionately known as “AT” or “Sister Tatum,” a beloved wife, mother, Nana, great-grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of God, passed away peacefully on June 19, 2025 at Moses Cone Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. She was 82.

Born and raised in Chadbourn, North Carolina, Annette’s life was marked by grace, creativity, and unwavering devotion—to her faith, her family, and her calling. She worked professionally in both accounting and childcare, all while tirelessly supporting her husband, Reverend Olin Tatum, in their 53 years of compassionate pastoral ministry. More than ministry partners, Annette was Olin’s best friend and devoted wife for 62 years—a bond built on love, faith, and shared purpose.

Annette served as co-pastor and unofficial “Chief Operating Officer” of the ministry they led together, handling countless behind-the-scenes responsibilities with excellence and heart. She planned and decorated for every church holiday celebration, organized ladies’ ministry events, and ensured that everything from logistics to hospitality reflected beauty, care, and Christ’s love. Her leadership, though often quiet and unassuming, was foundational to the ministry’s reach, warmth and success.

She had a remarkable way of brightening every room she entered. Her smile was radiant, her demeanor soothing, and her love limitless. She was the very definition of selflessness, always putting others before herself and nurturing those around her with quiet strength.

During her illness, many who visited her shared that Annette was their “angel on earth.” Her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith touched countless lives. She mentored others not only through words but through the gentle, powerful example of how she lived her life.

Long before “side hustles” were trendy, Annette was juggling them all—working hard to bring in extra money for her family. She designed and sewed clothes for her family and friends, did updos, put together stunning floral designs, and planned unforgettable events, all while caring for her grandchildren with love. She brought creativity, work-ethic, and heart to everything she did.

Annette had a deep love for the outdoors, where she found peace and joy in the beauty of God’s creation. Whether she was tending to her yard on her beloved zero-turn mower or casting a line while fishing with her family, she found happiness in the simple moments spent in nature. Her steady presence and quiet kindness will be deeply missed

Survivors other than her loving husband, Olin Tatum include her supportive daughters, Karen Tatum and Kim Beck and her husband Clay; her grandchildren that she adored, Ashlyn Green and her husband Ross, Jalyn KiKi-Charles and her husband Nick, Aly Loudermilk and her husband Jared, Kamryn Beck and her fiancé Bryce Poremba and Melia Beck; her 3-month-old great-granddaughter, Brynlee Loudermilk, who brought her infinite joy and smiles. Annette shared many joyful moments with her brothers, Tom Hilbourn and his wife Frances and Ken Hilbourn and his wife Martha, as well as with several nieces, nephews, and cousins who will cherish their memories of her. She was also deeply loved by her church family, who often looked to her for guidance and support. Annette has now been reunited with her loving parents, her daughter, Jeanell Tatum and her sister, Jeanette Jones.

The funeral service to celebrate the life of Annette will be held at 2:00pm Monday, June 23, 2025 at Triad Fellowship Church by Pastor Zachary Barnes. The family will be having visitation prior to the service on Monday from 11:00am to 1:45pm at the church and other times at the residence. The burial will be private at Alamance Memorial Park. Following the service, the family will be receiving visitors at Annette and Olin’s home, where memories can be shared in the warmth of the home she helped build with love.

Her memory will forever be a guiding light for her family and the communities she served.

You may send condolences to www.lowefuneralhome.com.