On May 10, 2018, Senna Mae (Tatum) Werling passed peacefully at home with family and friends by her side. In the weeks prior and true to form, she brought many together for food, fellowship and lessons on the art of the heart to heart hug.
Senna was born in Columbus, Ohio on Oct. 1, 1950 to Joseph Tatum and Elizabeth Montoya. She is preceded in death by both parents, long time stepfather Mike Montoya, her two brothers Steven and Alan Tatum and her oldest son Larry Steven Hay.
She is survived however by many more. Senna leaves her sisters Rajean Carr, Sharlene Palmer, Pamela Maynard, Cindy Tatum Rowland, and Dianne Jackson. Also left with loving memories are her husband Michael Werling; grandchildren Gregory and wife Kristina Hay and Kerrilyn Hay; son Chris Hay and his children Brittany, Zach, Parker, Ryleigh and Jaxson; daughter Amy Hay Massey (Jake) and her children Rachael and Bailey; son Matthew Werling, and daughter Sarah Werling Sandwith (Patrick) and their daughter Ally. Granddaughter Rachael Hay also gave Senna her only Great grandchild, Liam. The list of nieces, nephews, friends and more is too numerous to name but she loved each and every one of them dearly.
While family was a close second, Senna’s greatest love was for her Lord and God. She held her family in prayer tirelessly. Often putting her needs last, she gave all of her attention and love to whomever needed it. She truly was a mother to all. After nearly 50 years in Ohio spent raising her family on homegrown food and mid-west values, she tested her faith and followed her husband Mike to San Juan Island in 1998 with children Amy, Matt, and Sarah in tow. It was here she saw the depth and beauty of God’s Creation. The beauty of this place seemed to add years and meaning to her already blessed life. Her family and love for it grew immensely in her 20 years on the island. Her home and heart were always open and many would seek comfort in her kind words, bright eyes and loving heart. She will be dearly missed but her love preserved in the many lives she touched and shared with.
Senna’s wish was to be cremated and returned to the soils of southern Ohio. A celebration of her love will be held both on San Juan Island and in Ohio and dates will be shared as they are known. It was also Senna’s wish that anyone hoping to donate in any way please consider giving to St. Jude Research Hospital for Children or to the Friday Harbor Animal Protection Society.
The family would also like to thank any and all who were able to know and love our beloved matriarch. May your flowers shine a little brighter this year and forever.
