Stephen Edward Gatlin Sr.

Rev. Stephen Edward Gatlin, Sr. was born on August 18, 1944 and passed away on December 27, 2021, at the age of 77.

Steve was born in Dallas, Texas to Earl and Thelma Gatlin. He served in the U.S. Navy from January 1962 – July 1965, aboard the U.S.S. Midway, as an Airman Apprentice attached to V-1 Squadron. After leaving the Navy, Steve met the love of his life, Carol.

Steve was a Master Electrician by trade. He became a Licensed Minister with the Pentecostal Church of God, East Texas District in 1977 and received his ordination in 1987. Steve served in multiple roles with the East Texas District. In 1989, he became the Lead Pastor of

Bethel Community Church of Houston, Texas. He served as their Lead Pastor for 26 years before retiring from full-time ministry in 2015.

Steve is survived by his wife of 56 years, Carol Gatlin; son, Stephen Gatlin, Jr. and wife, Jennifer; daughter, Julie Gilsdorf and husband Mike; grandchildren, James Gilsdorf and wife Charity, Kaylea Gatlin and Olivia Gatlin; great grandchild, Harrison Gilsdorf; sister Betty Horswill; many love ones, extended family and friends

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Thelma Gatlin; sister, Mary Colombrito; brothers, Earl Wayne and Ricky Gatlin; and grandson, Nicholas Gilsdorf.