David Gatlin's Obituary
The life of Rev. David Byrl Gatlin, age 69, will be honored at Rader Funeral Home Saturday June 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM. Services will be officiated by Rev. Jonathan Robles and Rev. Kyle Gatlin with interment to follow at New Salem Cemetery.
Bro. David passed from this life’s journey to his eternal promised land Sunday May 31, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children.
David was born the oldest child and first of twin boys to the late Bill and Sue Gatlin on August 31, 1956 in Houston Texas. He graduated from Huffman Hargrave High School in 1974. On April 24, 1976 David married the love of his life Sandy Lea Simmons. The couple had two boys, Keith and Kyle before moving to Henderson Texas to complete their family with the addition of their third child Kasey.
Throughout his life, the Lord Jesus Christ continually drew David's heart toward His service. In 1989, David surrendered to the call of the Gospel ministry, beginning a lifelong commitment to preaching Christ and serving His people. That calling led him to pastor Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, where he accepted the pastorate in May of 1993. For more than thirty-three years, he faithfully shepherded the congregation and continued serving there until the Lord called him home.
Following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, David felt compelled to further serve his community by joining Eastside Volunteer Fire Department. For twenty-five years he faithfully served alongside his fellow firefighters, who affectionately knew him as "Preacher."
Whether in the pulpit, at a hospital bedside, around a family table, or on the scene of an emergency, David devoted his life to serving God and others. Through his unwavering faith, compassion, and dedication, he leaves behind a legacy that will continue to shine as a beacon to all who knew him.
David Byrl Gatlin was preceded in death by his father William Hill Gatlin and his mother Georgia Sue Gatlin and fictional son Kevin Gatlin. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Sandy Lea Gatlin, his children: Keith Gatlin, Kyle and Stephanie Gatlin, and Kasey and Justin Curry, his grandchildren: Aubrey Gatlin, Kaleb Gatlin, Faith Gatlin, Madison McMurtray, Kristopher Gatlin, Mason Miley, Mika Miley, Grace Gatlin, Kallen Gatlin, and Jackson Cole Curry, his siblings: Duane and Kim Gatlin of Lago Vista, Texas, Denise and Wendell Wilts of Firestone, Colorado, Deana and Mark Adams of Whitehouse, Texas, Deren and Julie Gatlin of Huffman, Texas, and Daryl Gatlin and Sissy of Waurika, Oklahoma, Brother-in-laws: Roy and Michelle Simmons and Johnny and Trista Simmons both of Henderson, Texas, two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Pallbearers will be Kris Gatlin, Cole Curry, Kaleb Gatlin, Mason Miley, Marcus Gatlin, and Dusten Gatlin. Honorary Pallbearer: Kallen Gatlin.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Eastside Volunteer Fire Department, Kindful Health, and Traci Allen for their love, support, and care during this season.
Those wishing to send money in lieu of flowers may donate to Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Longbranch or Eastside Volunteer Fire Department.
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