Sandlin Larry Gillen's Obituary
Sandlin “Sandy” Larry Gillen went peacefully to his eternal home on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 77 years of age. Though the past several years presented multiple health challenges for Sandy, those health issues did not keep him from fighting through them to the amazement of his doctors, family, and friends.
Born July 20, 1947, in Waterloo (Iowa), Sandy was the oldest child of his parents Sandlin and Laurene Gillen. Following graduation from Waterloo East High School, Sandy came to Longview, TX to attend LeTourneau College (now University) in fall 1966. After pledging Tau Kappa Delta (TKD) and becoming a member of that society, Sandy took a year off from college with commitments to the United States Army Reserves in 1967 – 1968. That obligation then required eight years of part-time service with weekend and summer camps. During his college years, Sandy was a member of the intercollegiate baseball team for LeTourneau College, primarily playing first base. These years also included employment as the student coordinator of intramural sports and employment through the Longview ambulance service. Sandy graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering, leading to employment with LeTourneau Industries and continued service through Marathon and Komatsu – a 50-year career!
While a student, Sandy met Joy Gatlin, the girl of his dreams and they were married August 19, 1972, leading to 52 years of marriage. Sandy and Joy were blessed with a daughter, Renee, and a son, Blake. Sandy’s dedication to his marriage, family, church, community, friendships, and profession were steadfast and loyal hallmarks of his entire life.
Throughout his life, Sandy had many hobbies and interests, especially enjoying woodworking and crafts. He cherished lifelong friendships with his TKD fraternity brothers, hosting reunions and gatherings with them and their spouses during homecoming events and missionary conferences. He and Joy welcomed each friend into their home, sharing their warmth and hospitality. He also greatly enjoyed meeting with his friends during their Small Group Bible Study each week. This wonderful group of close knit friends were a strong source of support through fellowship and prayer during the years of Sandy’s illnesses.
Sandy and Joy built a meaningful life in Longview raising two beautiful children, attending Mobberly Baptist Church, and continuing the legacy of Reaching Kids 4 Christ. This ministry sends Christian-themed coloring books to children in 38 countries, with materials translated into nine languages. Sharing the Gospel and serving Christ were central to Sandy’s life.
Sandlin was preceded in death by his father, Sandlin, and mother, Laurene Gillen, younger sister, Debbie Lentzkow, brother-in-law, John Moser. He is survived by his wife, Joy Gatlin Gillen; daughter Renee Shirey; son Blake and daughter-in-law Tracy; brothers and sisters, Sheryl Moser, Steve Gillen (Jane), Tim Gillen (Patty), Dan Gillen (Lacinda), and many nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Sunday, November 3 at Rader Funeral Home in Longview. A celebration of life service will be held at 10:00 am Monday, November 4 in the chapel of Rader Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to Reaching Kids 4 Christ, 1204 Daffodil Lane, Longview, TX 75604, or Mobberly Baptist Church, 625 E Loop 281, Longview, TX 75605.
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