Nashville, Tenn. — William Wayne “Curley” Gatlin, father of Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers, passed away on Monday, November 9, at age 93.
Today, the brothers released the following statement:
“It is with great sadness that we share the news of our father’s passing on Monday at 4 pm. It is with great joy that we think of the reunion with our mom, his mom and dad, and all the saints who were there to usher him into heaven. Music is a healing balm. ‘I won’t have to cross Jordan alone. Jesus died all my sins to atone. In the darkness I see. He’ll be waiting for me. I won’t have to cross Jordan alone.'” -Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers
William Wayne “Curley” Gatlin was born in Mabank, Texas on May 14, 1927. The brothers credit their father, a veteran of the United States Marines Corps, for teaching them the value of hard work. He is survived by his three sons, Larry, Steve and Rudy, daughter, LaDonna, nine grandchildren, and 18 great grandchildren. He was married to the love of his life, Billie Doan Gatlin, for 70 years until her passing in 2017.
The Gatlin family is planning a private memorial service.