Edward Earl Gatlin

Edward Earl Gatlin, of Lancaster, Texas, passed away from cancer on December 30, 2024. Edward, known by most as “Ed” or “Eddie,” is survived by many: the love of his life and high school sweetheart, Lisa, to whom he was married for forty-two years; his children and their spouses, Tyler and Ami (Woo), Shelbi and Anthony (Abi-Assaf), and Paden; siblings and spouses, Marla and Rick McGinnis, and Del and Marilyn Gatlin; in-laws, Victor Colaluca, Donald and Lisa Colaluca, Nancy and Jon Hooper, Mark Colaluca, Faye Colaluca, and Andrew and Debra Colaluca; his aunt, Velma Davis; many cousins; and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends he adored. He was preceded by his parents, Delbert and Zelda Gatlin; in-laws, Donald and Joan Colaluca, and brother-in-law, Norman Colaluca. Shortly after graduating from Lancaster High School, Eddie entered the world of cabinetry and millwork as a salesman. Guided by an inherent entrepreneurial spirit and with the unwavering support of his wife, he eventually pursued his own ventures and found distinguished success in the industry. His decades-long career was marked by his confidence and tireless work ethic. Ed enjoyed many, many things. Among those were deep sea fishing, the New Orleans Saints, manning the grill while blasting good tunes, his rescued critters Clarence and Shirley, and taking in nature from his back patio while enjoying a cigar. To know Ed was to know his deep passion for sports. He was a gifted athlete—excelling in basketball, in particular—and he found great joy later in life as a coach. He left an indelible mark on the hearts of countless athletes he taught, trained, and mentored. He had a loyal group of close friends and looked forward to their near-daily phone calls and check-ins. But above all else, there was Ed’s family. Everything Ed did was for his wife and children. To witness his love for them in action was something remarkable. His courage, integrity, and grit will always be remembered and will continue to inspire them as they carry forward his memory with love. Services will be held at Byrum Funeral Home in Lancaster. Visitation is from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 8th, and a celebration of Ed’s life will take place the following day, January 9th, at 10:00 a.m.

Tributes

Edward Earl Gatlin

April 29, 1959 - December 30, 2024