John Monroe Tappan

Mr. John Monroe Tappan, aged 73, of Rome, GA, passed away on Wednesday July 22, 2026, at a local hospital.

John was born in Meridian, Mississippi on February 13, 1953, son of the late Jay Nell Boutwell Tappan. After his first few years in California, he grew up in Quitman and Gulfport, Mississippi.

Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Susan Dawkins Tappan; his sons, Chris Tappan and Cliff Tappan (Pam); his grandchildren, Elena, Maeve, Reid, Thea, and Emerson; his brothers, Scott Tappan and Tim Tappan, and nephews.

John dedicated his life to Christian education, receiving degrees at Mississippi College, where he met his wife Susan, and then at Southwestern Baptist Theological seminary. He served in full-time vocational ministry for 40+ years, at Eastmont Baptist in Montgomery, AL, First Baptist Clinton, MS, East Ridge Baptist in East Ridge, TN, and First Baptist Mount Washington, KY.

He was a man who loved Jesus more than anyone or anything else, and his family will forever be indebted to him for leading in this way. He adored Susan, cherished time with the grands, and enjoyed woodworking and all the “fix-it” projects he could possibly find. He and Susan loved camping and hiking and enjoying God’s world.

For a man who grew up with no father figure in his life, his family will forever admire the man he became and the parent and grandparent he was. Already looking forward to seeing you again. Enjoy His glory!

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at 12:00pm, at Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, Oaknoll Chapel with pastors and friends Mark Rice, Jim Atwood, and Jarrod Roberts officiating.

Graveside and Interment services will be held on Wednesday, July 29 at 10:00 AM at Magnolia Cemetery in Meridian, Mississippi, with Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes in charge of services.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you consider making a donation to the Missions Fund at West Rome Baptist Church in memory of John via: https://westrome.org/give/

The staff at Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes is deeply grateful for the opportunity to honor Mr. Tappan’s life and memory, and to serve his loving family during this difficult time.