James Ellis Gatlin, 76, passed from this life January 11, 2021 at King’s Daughters Medical Center
in Brookhaven, Mississippi. He was born December 8, 1944 to his parents, Bennie William Gatlin
and Annie Bell Hawkins. After graduation he went into the United States Air Force and served
during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he worked as a machine operator for various
companies, finally retiring as a Dredge Operator with the State of Mississippi at Barnett Reservoir.
James was a member of Moak’s Creek Baptist Church. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and all
family gatherings. His presence will be missed forever.
He is preceded in death by his parents, six brothers, and one sister.
Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Thomas Ann Smith Gatlin; sons, Chris C. Gatlin (Barbara),
Todd P. Gatlin (Vicki); one sister, Shelby Davis; 12 grandchildren, Austin Gatlin, Gabe Moore,
Allisen Moore, Destiny Gatlin, Natalie Moore, Corey Gatlin, Josh Gatlin, Jon Gatlin, Ethan Gatlin,
Maggie Sigur, Paige Gatlin, and Griffin DeJean; three great grandchildren and numerous other loving family members and friends.
Donations may be made to your local food bank.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to ensure the safety and health of all our loved ones.