Ruth Etta (Karr) Tatman

Ruth Etta (Karr) Tatman, 91, of Laurelville, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2026 at her residence surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 10, 1934, in South Perry, the daughter of the late Fredrick H. “Jake” and Jeanette (Kline) Karr. On July 2, 1955, she united in marriage with her loving husband, Melvin Tatman, who preceded her in death on March 21, 1994.

Ruth is survived by her beloved children, Terry Tatman, Melvenna (Leonard) Gentil, and Bryan Tatman; grandchildren, Beth Ann (Zach) Roy, Angela (John) Starner, Terry (Jenny) Tatman Jr., Jamie Hill, Jennifer (Kevin) Steele, Jeremy (Kelley) Gentil, Summer (John) Cook, and Larrisa Tatman; 18 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-grandchild and 1 on the way; sister, Mary Alice “Sally” Vanlear, of Verona, Virginia; and numerous other special family members and friends whom she cherished.

In addition to her parents and husband, Ruth was preceded in death by her son, David Tatman; and siblings, Eugene “Hen” Karr, Albert “Abe” Karr, Harold “Pete” Karr, Margaret Rose Karr, Deloris “Dot” Karr, and infant, Janice Karr.

Ruth was a 1952 graduate of Laurelville High School. She was a devoted mother and homemaker for her family. She was a faithful member of Hallsville Community Church, where she enjoyed sharing her beautiful singing voice. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society and a local choir called the Kitchen Band. She will be deeply missed.

Funeral Services will be held on Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at the HILL FUNERAL HOME, Kingston with Rev. Greg Gardner officiating. Burial will follow in Green Summit Cemetery, Adelphi. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at Hill’s. Condolences and floral gifts can be made on Ruth’s online guestbook at www.hillfhkingston.com.