Joan Gatlin, 84, of Dorcas, Florida, passed away suddenly on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
Born on September 4, 1940, in Waco, Georgia, Joan was the daughter of Cicero and Druscilla Hendrix. She was raised in Ranburne, Alabama, met the love of her life while in college, and moved to Florida in 1960, where she made her home for the rest of her life. Joan dedicated over 30 years to teaching at Northwood Elementary School, where she lovingly guided second and third-grade students as part of the Okaloosa County School District. She retired after 30 and a half years of service, leaving a lasting impact on countless young lives.
A faithful Christian, Joan volunteered in the nursery, sang in the choir, taught Sunday School for all ages, and led VBS for many years at Dorcas Baptist Church. She always served others by providing home cooked meals in times of need. Joan found joy in gardening, working in her yard, treasure hunting at yard sales, cooking, and, most of all spending time with her family and grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her sisters, Carolyn English and Jean Mobley; her brother, Charles Ray Hendrix; and her beloved granddaughter, Jenna Gatlin Burgess. Joan is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Joe Gatlin; her sons, Jimmy Gatlin (Detra), Eddie Gatlin (Renee), and Bobby Gatlin (Kerri); her sister, Shirlene Mills; grandchildren Jason Gatlin, Lacy Russell (Logan), Taylor Gatlin, and Will Gatlin; four great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Dorcas Baptist Church, with Pastor David Van Zandt and Pastor Chris Laster officiating. Burial will follow at Dorcas Cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., at Dorcas Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Dorcas Baptist Church steeple fund.
Dorcas Baptist Church
Dorcas Baptist Church
Linda Henderson
June 9, 2025, 9:22 pm
Joe, we are heartbroken for you and your family. Joan was such a lovely lady and we always enjoyed our brief visits in the grocery store aisles. Beautiful lady in every way! Love you, Joe!
Leonard and Sue Thorn
June 9, 2025, 9:28 pm
Joe and family,
One could not help but love Joan and Joe Gatlin, both such friendly people. We’re very sad to learn of Joan’s passing, just know your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Sending our sincere condolences to the Gatlin family.
Carole Guy
June 9, 2025, 10:04 pm
Joan was a wonderful lady, great teacher and grest cook. She taught my son in 2nd grade. I worked with her for years at Northwood Elem. So sorry for your loss. She will be missed.
Rollin and Corolla Anderson
June 10, 2025, 9:32 pm
Joe and family,
We are sorry for your loss . Joan was a sweet lady that will be missed by many friends and family.
Danny and Debbie Bowden
June 10, 2025, 9:41 pm
Joe, Jimmy and Detra, Eddie and Renee, Bobby and Kerri, and all of the family. Danny and I are SOS sorry for your loss. Joan was an amazing Wife, Mom, Grandma, Aunt, friend. She was a blessing to us throughout the years. We are praying for all of you and sending you love.
Ina Hehl
June 10, 2025, 10:08 pm
I am so sorry,I was just getting to know Joan,what a beautiful lady,God be with you Joe, you’re in my prayers.I know she is with the Lord.
Margie Henderson
June 11, 2025, 12:02 am
So very sorry for your loss.Mrs Gatlin was a wonderful sweet lady.She taught my Son in the 3 rd grade we just loved her.Praying for the family doing this difficult time.
Danny Downing
June 11, 2025, 3:40 am
Bobby,
I am so sorry to read about your Mom. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family.
LaDonna Aaron Medley
June 11, 2025, 2:03 pm
Joe, you and family are in my prayers! I am in Lexington, Kentucky, for 3 weeks and will not be able to come to the funeral.
Jack and Christine Smart
June 12, 2025, 1:52 pm
Joe and family Jack and I are so sorry for your loss of Joan. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Sending our sincere condolences. Jack and Christine Smart
Edy Hitaffer
June 12, 2025, 4:49 pm
I am the manager of the Subway inside of Walmart I have been here many years and Joan was one of many regulars with her Subway club. She will be missed terribly. My condolences 🙏 to your family.
Hau Tran
June 12, 2025, 5:57 pm
Joe and family,
I’m so sorry and deeply saddened to hear about Joan’s passing. She was such a special person, and I have so many wonderful memories of her. Joe and Joan always treated me like one of the boys when we were growing up, and I’ll always cherish those times. She will be deeply missed.
Rest in peace, Joan.
Fred and RuthEllen Potter
June 13, 2025, 4:32 pm
Joe and family , Fred and I are very sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. You will be in our prayers.
wanda mashburn
June 16, 2025, 1:07 am
Joe and family , tommy and I are so sorry for your loss. Joan was such a sweet lady.
Tommy Mashburn and Wanda Mashburn
Tracey A. Scott & Scott Family
June 16, 2025, 10:36 am
I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Gatlin taught me at Northwood Elementary School and also my other family members. She always had a smile and she was one of my favorite elementary teachers. Prayers Ascending.
Tracey A. Scott &
Scott Family