Mr. Rufus Earl Gatlin

Deacon Rufus Earl Gatlin was born on July 7, 1934 and called to eternal rest on January 24, 2025. He was the 6th son of the late Willie and Hattie Gatlin of Tylertown, Mississippi. As a young man, he set out for Louisiana with big dreams and a determination to build a successful life. Through hard work and perseverance, Rufus established a meaningful career as a Director of Plant Maintenance. A self-taught craftsman, he had the extraordinary ability to fix anything and could even build a house from the ground up. Rufus’ faith was a guiding force in his life. His journey with Christ began at Mesa Mt. Olive Church in his youth. He later became a member of Stronger Hope Baptist Church and went on to serve as a deacon at Cypress Grove Missionary Baptist Church under Pastor Fred T. Porter. Upon relocating to Folsom, Louisiana, he continued his faith walk at Midway Church of Christ Holiness under the direction of Bishop Leroy Divinity. The Bible says, "He who findeth a wife findeth a good thing." Rufus found his blessing in Arbezeen, and on January 29, 1955 they entered into matrimony. Rufus left to mourn his wife Arbezeen Gatlin of 69 years. 1 daughter Denise Beverly(John). Two granddaughters Denita Forges(Whitne) Jennifer Harding(Kevin) 2 great grandsons Carter Harper and Langston Forges. He also leaves to mourn two sisters Emma Clark, Anna Stewart(Brian Williams) and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. He also leaves to mourn our "FRAMILY", "friends who became family", Craig, Melissa, CJ, Mary, and Trent Paretti. He is preceded in death by both his parents, three daughters, Janice, Jacqueline, and Gwendolyn Gatlin, six brothers, Toy, LJ, Percy, Stennis, Lucious and Bang Gatlin. Two brothers in law Sylvester Brister and Victor Clark. Deacon Gatlin’s legacy of love, faith, and craftsmanship will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. Homegoing Celebration Relatives and friends are invited to honor his life at the following services: Louisiana Service Midway Church of Christ Holiness (under the direction of Bishop Leroy Divinity) 83359 LA-25, Folsom, LA 70437 Friday, February 7, 2025 Visitation: 10:00 AM Service: 11:00 AM Repass to follow Mississippi Service Mesa Mt. Olive Church (under the direction of Pastor John Dillon) 12 Mesa Mt. Olive Rd., Tylertown, MS 39667 Saturday, February 8, 2025 Visitation: 10:00 AM Service: 11:00 AM Interment: Tylertown Cemetery Repass to follow May he rest in eternal peace, knowing he was deeply loved and will never be forgotten.

Mr. Rufus Earl Gatlin

July 7, 1934 - January 24, 2025