Deacon F. Nathaniel Gatlin, Jr.

 In lieu of flowers, please feel free to contribute to the Blind Veterans Association 
PO Box 1092
Linden, NJ 07036
 

A Life Well Lived: F. Nathaniel Gatlin, Jr.

F. Nathaniel Gatlin, Jr., a devoted Christian, son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, was born on July 25, 1939, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to the late Dr. F. Nathaniel Gatlin and Mrs. Mildred Pettiford Gatlin. His life was a testament to faith, dedication, and perseverance.

Early Life and Education

During his formative years in Greensboro, where his father taught at Bennett College, young Nat was cherished by the college community. In 1943, the family moved to Jefferson City, Missouri, when his father accepted a teaching position at Lincoln University. There he was introduced to music, learning the trumpet under his father’s guidance. 

In 1947, the family relocated to Ettrick, Virginia, where his father taught at Virginia State College. Nat attended Matoaca Laboratory School and later Peabody High School in Petersburg.  A gifted musician, he played trumpet in both the marching and concert bands and was frequently featured as a soloist; he also sang in the school choir. In addition, it was during these years that he began dating his first wife, Emma Gertrude Thelma Taylor.

During high school, proficient on the trumpet, Nat often won first place in music contests. His musical excellence was also displayedwhen his dad recruited him to join the marching band, “Marching 110” of Virginia State College, to perform at the Giant Stadium during half-time for the New York Giants vs the Philadelphia Eagles football game. 

Pursuit of Engineering and Military Service

Although many expected him to follow in his father’s musical footsteps, Nat had a different passion—electrical engineering. Despite the racial challenges of the time, he was determined to enroll at the University of Virginia (UVA), which he felt had one of the best engineering programs. As one of only four African Americans enrolled at UVA, Nat faced many obstacles but remained steadfast in his academic pursuits.

Following his time at UVA, Nat joined the United States Air Force, where he utilized his engineering skills. During this period, he married Emma, and they welcomed their daughter, Joan Jacquelyn. He served in the military for four years.

Professional Career and Family Life

After serving in the Air Force, Nat began his long and successful career at AT&T. His work led him to Richmond Virginia, Maryland,and later to New Jersey as he rose through the company’s ranks. He dedicated over three decades to the telecommunications industry before retiring in the early 2000s.

Nat and Emma were married for over five decades. Their enduring partnership was a testament to their devotion and commitment to one another until Emma’s passing in 2015.

A Legacy of Love, Hard Work, and Perseverance

Nat was blessed to find love again. In 2017, he married Gloria Dean Cates and together they built a beautiful and devoted partnership. Their love not only united them but also brought their families together as one. When Nat’s health declined due to glaucoma, causing him to lose his eyesight, Gloria became his guiding light, ensuring he could still go wherever he wished. When cancer later struck, she became his unwavering caregiver, providing endless love and support without hesitation. 

Nat had a strong passion for fitness. Prior to losing his sight, Nat was an avid runner, logging five to six miles daily and even competing in a few marathons. He loved to run with his granddaughters when they would come to visit.  His commitment to physical fitness was not just about staying in shape – it reflected his perseverance, resilience, and drive to push himself beyond limitations. Nat approached every challenge with the same unwavering determination, inspiring his grandchildren and others to do the same.

Commitment to Faith and Community

Faith played a central role in Nat’s life.  he was a dedicated member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church. Later, upon moving to New Jersey, he became an active member of First Baptist Church in Somerset. His commitment to service led him to participate in missionary work, traveling to Haiti and South Africa and organizing a book drive to send hundreds of books to these regions. 

Nat’s fervent study of the Bible and his faith inspired him to develop and teach a course called The Black Presence in the Bible, which he led for many years. His dedication to his church and community culminated in his ordination as a Deacon. He worked tirelessly to support charitable causes, including the “Good Home for Women.”

Remembering Nat

F. Nathaniel Gatlin, Jr. was a man of unwavering faith, immense determination, and an unparalleled love for his family, friends, and community. His life was a testament to overcoming adversity, and he remained steadfast in his dedication to his church and his passion for service. During the tragic events of 9/11 in New York City, Nat courageously volunteered to assist with the clean-up efforts. His commitment to helping those in need may have contributed to the health challenges he later faced, but he never wavered in his belief that helping others was a calling.

Nat is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria Dean Gatlin; his loving daughter, Joan Jacquelyn Johnson, and devoted son-in-law, Ken Johnson; his cherished sister, Brenda Gatlin; his beloved grandchildren, Jennifer DaSilva, Courtney Johnson, and Christopher Johnson; and his loving daughters and granddaughters throughmarriage—Robbin Cates, Arlydia Cates, and Natasha Cates,granddaughters, Ashley Cates and Jade Cates. He is also survived by a host of relatives, extended family, friends, and many others whose lives he touched through his music, his faith, and his relentless service to others.

Though he will be deeply missed, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His was truly a life well lived.