James A. Tatarka

Smithfield, VA - On October 5, 2019, James A. Tatarka, 76, formerly of Youngstown, Ohio, passed away in his home with his children and brothers by his side. James was born on August 22, 1943. After graduating from Austintown Fitch High School in 1961, he attended Youngstown State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree (1965) and a Master’s degree (1971) in Education. He began teaching for the Austintown Local Schools in 1965. He taught for 35 years before retiring in 2000. He is remembered and admired by former students for his sense of humor, artistic talent, and creativity. He has been referred to as “the teacher everyone wanted”. James was also a talented writer and is remembered fondly for the plays he wrote and directed for his middle school classes. Dedicated to teaching and helping others, he taught Adult Basic Education classes and worked as a Mill Creek Park policeman for many years. James married the love of his life, Cheryl L. Watson, on August 28, 1965. Inseparable and always holding hands, the love between them was respected and admired by everyone who knew them. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was an avid reader and quite the movie buff. He could always be found with a video camera in hand, especially at family events and holidays, and he created decades of priceless memories to be cherished by his children and grandchildren. James is survived by his three children; a daughter, Lori (Frank) Powers of Oregon; a son, James A. Tatarka II of Virginia; a daughter, Dana (Jim) Patton of Texas; and two grandchildren, Rachel and Zachary Powers of Oregon. He is also survived by his three brothers in Ohio; Jack (Susan) Tatarka, Jerry (Betsy) Tatarka, Jeff (Darlene) Tatarka, and many nieces and nephews. James is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 53 years, Cheryl, his parents, John A. and Anna (Nardo) Tatarka, his uncle, Mike Tatarka, and his aunt, Christina Tatarka.  At James’ request, no services will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to one of his and Cheryl’s favorite local libraries: Isle of Wight County Library Smithfield Branch 255 James Street Smithfield, VA 23430. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.