James Tatom

March 24, 1960 - December 19, 2020 Vacaville, CA

Known to his family and friends as Jim, the loving husband and father of two boys passed away at the age of 60. Jim was born in Tucumcari, NM to Bill and Evagene (Fowler) Tatom. After graduating high school in Amarillo, TX, Jim journeyed to California to start a new life. He began his career at BC Stocking Distributing, providing fuel to wineries and farmers in Northern California. Jim continued his career working for Solano County, where he was a Stationary Engineer for 23 years. The county animal shelter was on his rotation, and he loved visiting the dogs. It was here he found his best dog Rusty. He retired in February 2020.

Jim was married to Donna Whitaker for ten years and they had one son, Austin.

Jim married Carol Oxford in 1999, and they raised their two boys, Austin Tatom and Kyle Oxford. Jim loved the outdoors, horses, and taking long drives in his new truck with his two Labradors, Red and Blue. He had a heart for the homeless, and for veterans, and participated in wreath ceremonies every year. Jim was a passionate reader of John Steinbeck books, studying world history, and working in his meticulously arranged shop. Known for his smile and charming drawl; he knew everyone at the grocery store by name. His big laugh and kind heart provided a lifetime of love for his family. Jim and Carol celebrated their 21st anniversary in September.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Bill Tatom, and his mother, Evagene Fowler. He is survived by his wife, Carol Oxford; his two children, Austin Tatom and Kyle Oxford; brothers, Tom Tatom and Douglas Tatom; sister, Christine Davis, and several cousins, nieces, and nephews. No services will be held at this time. A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in the spring of 2021. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Wounded Warrior Project.