W. D. Gatlin's Obituary
W.D. ?Jack? Gatlin
W.D, ?Jack? Gatlin, 79, of Longview, went to his eternal home with his Lord and Savior peacefully on Friday, May 21, 2004. He departed into eternal life from a Longview nursing facility to rest in peace, with no more pain or sorrow forever more.
Mr. Gatlin was born on October 15, 1924 in Athens, Texas to D.W. Gatlin and Annie Willis. He honorably served his country with the United States ARMY as a Medic in Germany during World War II. Mr. Gatlin attended the Southern Nazarene College. He began his career with the Longview Police Department, became a Captain and served there for 17 years. He then ended his career with retirement from Lockhead Martin. He was an active member of the First Church of the Nazarene in Longview before his illness prohibited his attendance, and enjoyed the art of wood working.
A husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. Gatlin was preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, Gene Gatlin. He is survived by his dear loving wife of 56 years, Norma Gatlin of Longview; daughter and son-in-law, Joy and Sandlin Gillen; son and daughter-in-law, Timothy and Janie Gatlin of Houston; grandchildren, Kent Gatlin, Renee? Shirey, Blake Gillen, Megan Mathison; brother, Joe Willis; and numerous nieces and nephews. .
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM Monday, May 24, 3004 in the Chapel of Rader Funeral Home of Longview, 1617 Judson Road, with the Reverend?s Steve Coleman and Bob Snodgrass officiating. Entombment will follow in Rosewood Park?s Hope Garden Mausoleum. The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 PM Sunday, May 23, 2004 at the funeral home.
The family would like to extend heart felt appreciation to Greater Hospice of Texas for their support and care during the most difficult time in their lives. Memorial contributions may be made to: First Church of the Nazarene, 2601 H.G. Mosley Parkway, Longview, Texas 75605, or Greater Hospice of Texas, ?Margaret?s House?, P.O. BOX 9725, Longview, Texas 75608.
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