With a heavy heart, Myles Ilan Tatum, 9, of Malvern, Arkansas, transitioned on Monday, August 10, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas, at Children's Hospital with family by his side.

Myles was born at CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs on July 31, 2017, to his loving parents, Marcus Tatum and Sasha Smith. He was raised in the quaint town of Malvern, Arkansas, where he captured the hearts of both family and friends throughout his brilliant lifetime.

He was preceded in rest by his grandmother Nanny, Clara Mae Smith, who, although she never had the chance to be with him physically, is now forever and always accompanied by him through memory and spirit.

Myles was an enthusiastic student at Malvern Elementary School. He was a scholar in many subjects, his favorites of such including the periodic table, astrology, multiplication, linguistics, and geography. He also had a proficient interest in music, with much of his free time being dedicated to studying both the piano and cello.

Myles' vivid and unique personality gifted many moments of laughter, joy, and compassion to his loved ones. More than anything, he loved to play in the company of his relatives, most notably enjoying spending quality time with his mother, father, and four older siblings. Some of his favorite activities included swimming, visiting the Urban Air trampoline park, solving Rubik’s cubes, and playing sandbox games on his tablet.

Myles is survived by his mother, Sasha Smith, along with his father, Marcus Tatum. He is also loved and remembered by his siblings, Yelena Beck (Star Beck), Sydney Erwin, Tristynn Tatum. and Mekhi Tatum. He will be missed by his grandparents, Jacquelyn Tatum and Ray Tatum, along with a host of uncles, aunts, and cousins.

The family of Myles I. Tatum would like to extend our sincere appreciation to the PICU staff of Arkansas Children’s Hospital, who ensured that the care given in Myles’ final goodbye was extended to family and friends alike. Their diligence, kindness, and conversation acted as a comfort in a time of uncertainty. We would also like to thank everyone who shared kind words, memories, thoughts, and prayers since our loss. We know that in all of your hearts and minds, Myles will continue to thrive in remembrance, through laughter and love, just as he lived.

The Meet and Greet will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed immediately by “Forever My Favorite Cellist” from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

A reception will follow from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

All services will be held at:

Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church

1220 Carmichael St., Malvern, AR 72104

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.