Jessie James Gatlin

On February 4, 1948, Mr. Jessie James Gatlin, who his beloved grandbabies affectionately call "Paw Paw," was born in Crystal Springs, MS, to Mr. Aaron Gatlin, Sr. and Mrs. Martha Phillips Gatlin. At a young age, he realized that he had a love for learning and a strong desire to discover God's purpose for his life. He decided that he would devote his life to fulfilling that purpose with all of his might. Here, we celebrate his legacy because for 75 years, that's exactly what he did.

In his late teens, Jessie answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Army. During nearly four years of honorable service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal, reflecting his dedication and exemplary conduct. During his military service, Jessie discovered a love for martial arts during his deployment in East Asia. He was particularly fascinated with locals who practiced the arts of Tai Chi and Taekwondo. Jessie’s time in the military instilled in him a profound sense of discipline and pride, qualities that guided him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Jessie discovered his passion and natural talent for electrical work. With determination and tireless effort, he became a licensed electrician, a role in which he took great pride. Jessie was honored to join the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), where he found not only a fulfilling career but also a sense of camaraderie and purpose. He worked diligently as a skilled electrician for over 20 years, leaving a legacy of excellence and integrity. Jessie retired from IBEW Local 11 in Los Angeles, California, with the respect and admiration of his peers.

Jessie was known for his strength, his love for his family and cherished friends, his affection for country western movies, boxing, and of course all things martial arts, his playful pre-occupation with winning at Spades (by any means necessary), and that smooth tenor singing voice that he often used to hit beautiful falsetto notes that sounded like the late soul singer Al Green.

On February 15, 1992, the day after they marked their dating anniversary, a.k.a. Valentine’s Day, Jessie consecrated one of his most cherished blessings when he exchanged marital vows with the love of his life, Mrs. Shirley Gatlin. For over 30 years, he honored his promise to love and cherish her “for richer or poorer,” and in both sickness and health. With dedication, long-suffering, and grace, she loved him right back. He was so proud to have her at his side as his life partner and they cherished the countless memories they created together. On December 24, 2024 Jessie, a beloved husband, devoted grandfather, and cherished friend to many, transcended to be with his heavenly father.

The late Mr. Jessie James Gatlin is survived by his wife Shirley Gatlin; his children, Jessica Lavine, Katrise Samake (Daniel), and Delonda Mansfield Brown (Larry); grandchildren, Alana, Carlton (“Tim”), Daniel, Amari, Aliyah, Taylor, Cyr Mathieu (“MJ”), Larry, Jr., Logan, and Lauren; great-grandchildren Khloe and Marrow; siblings Nora Jean, Walter Young (Percenthia), Estella White, Georgia Johnson (John), and Dorothy Miller (Thomas). Jessie was preceded in death by his father, Aaron Gatlin, Sr. and mother Martha Phillips Gatlin; siblings William Gatlin, Katherine Gatlin, Aaron Gatlin, Jr., Mary Lee Gatlin, Willie Lee Johnson, Elnora Johnson, Emma Ford, Camela Gatlin, Sylvester Gatlin, and Lorene Tyler.

Mr. Jessie James Gatlin’s family would like to express sincere thanks to Trusted Health Care, Enhabit Home Health Care, Specialty Hospice, Center Well, Baptist Hospice, Manhattan Nursing and Rehab Center, The ICU Doctors and Nurses at Merit Health on the 2nd Floor, Dr. Justin Turner, Dr. Alana Wright, and every single person who prayed, called, sent cards, and extended other acts of kindness during this difficult time. May God continue to bless each of you.

Services celebrating the life and legacy of Mr. Jessie James Gatlin will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025 in Jackson, MS at New Jerusalem Church (Alta Woods Location), immediately followed by interment at Lakewood Memorial Park. A visitation will be held at New Jerusalem Church (Alta Woods Location) from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. The funeral will begin at 10:00 a.m.