James Gatson

James Gatson was born July 1, 1927 in Yarbo, Alabama.  He was one of four children born to the union of the late Rubin and Zeola (May) Gatson.  An Army veteran of two wars, Korean and Vietnam, Sergeant First Class Gatson specialized in combat service support operations and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart for meritorious service in a combat zone. 

He served his country on active duty for 28 years.  After retirement from the Army, James continued to serve and support the military for another 43 years, to the age of 89, by driving for the Post Cab Company and mentoring (imparting his own brand of life lessons) to young soldiers during daily taxi rides.  

James went home to be with his Lord the afternoon of June 19, 2019, at the age of 91 years, 11 months and 19 days. 

James was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, great-great grandfather, brother, uncle and friend.  On October 11, 1954 in Waynesboro, Mississippi, James was united in marriage with Ella Davidson.  Together they shared five wonderful children to continue and build on their legacy. 

He will be very sadly missed by his three daughters: Shirley Garmon, Barbara Curlin (Willie), and Natalie Gatson, all of Atlanta, GA; two sons: Maurice Gatson of Atlanta, GA, and Retired LTC Dwayne Gatson (Judi) of Columbia, SC; 11 grandchildren: Darrian, LaShawn, Willie (Robyn), Trenia (Brian), Chameka (Bradly), Anthony (Jennifer), Jaimie, N’Kosi, Solomon, Aidan, and Nicholas; 15 great grandchildren: Mareal, Jeremy, Darrian Jr., Kiara, Maurice, Noel, Giovanni, Eric, William, Ryan, Alyssa, Eden, Evan, Amir and Zyon; and 8 great-great grandchildren: Makayla, Desean, Davon, Jazlyn, Jordin, Jhan, Jayden, and A’mora.  

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his wife Ella, brother Rubin “Big Heart”, sisters Ruby Lee and Pearlie “Dutch”, son James Jr. “Fuddy”, and grandsons, Dwayne II “Deuce”, Braylon, and Cameron. 

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