Larry, Steve & Rudy Gatlin: “We Sadly, But Joyfully, Announce the ‘Homecoming’ of Our Mother”

Nashville, Tenn. — Larry, Steve, and Rudy Gatlin, the Gatlin Brothers, have released the following statement:

“On behalf of our father, William Wayne “Curley” Gatlin, our sister, La Donna Gatlin Johnson, and a whole ‘gang’ of grandkids and great grandkids, we sadly, but joyfully announce the HOMEGOING of our mother, Billie Christine Doan Gatlin. Our mother went to heaven on Friday night at 11:30pm. We loved her, we will cherish our memories of her, and we will see her again. HALLELUJAH TO THE RISEN LORD!!”  -Larry, Steve and Rudy Gatlin

Billie Doan Gatlin was born in Megargel, Texas on December 21, 1928. She was instrumental in nurturing the early days of the brothers when they began singing together 62 years ago. She often accompanied the young brothers on piano as they performed together at church events, television and radio shows, and live concerts throughout the United States, which included an appearance at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York City.

She is survived by her husband of 70 years, William Wayne “Curley” Gatlin, three sons and a daughter, Larry, Steve, Rudy and La Donna, nine grandchildren, and 16 great grandchildren (with another on the way). She was 88 years old.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.