Nashville, Tenn. (September 16, 2017) — 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.
About Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers
The close family harmonies of Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers have given the trio a signature sound that led to country classics like “All The Gold In California” and “Houston (Means I’m One Day Closer To You).” The brothers won a GRAMMY® for their 1976 breakthrough hit, “Broken Lady,” and reached #1 with several other songs soon thereafter. Along with five career nominations for the ACM Vocal Group, the Gatlin Brothers picked up three 1979 trophies–Single of the Year (“All The Gold In California”), Album of the Year (Straight Ahead) and Male Vocalist of the Year for Larry Gatlin. The brothers were also nominated for multiple CMA Awards. Larry Gatlin has written songs recorded by Elvis Presley, Glen Campbell, Barbra Streisand, Johnny Cash, Kris Kristofferson, Dottie West, Roy Orbison, Barry Gibb and countless Gospel artists including the Gaither Vocal Band, the Booth Brothers, the Isaacs and many more. After 62 years of music, the brothers continue to perform nearly 100 live concert dates each year.
For more information on Larry Gatlin & the Gatlin Brothers, visit gatlinbrothers.com.