Obituary of Joyce Ann Gatling

Joyce Ann Gatling, fondly called “Jane” by those close to her, was born on November 11, 1939, in Sunbury, North Carolina. She was the cherished second child of the late John Solomon Gatling and Lucille Lassiter Gatling, in addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved brother, Charlie Lassiter “Skip” Gatling, nephew John Arthur “Papa Bear” Gatling, and grandnephew Keith Andrew Gatling, Jr.  Joyce transitioned to her eternal rest on April 20, 2024,  in Plainfield, New Jersey.

Joyce had a strong commitment to her Christian faith and demonstrated that commitment through her unwavering dedication as a musician. Her spiritual journey began at St. John AMEZ Church in Sunbury, NC where she showcased her musical talent in the choir and directed the St. John AMEZ Youth Choir. Her love for music led her to pursue a Bachelor of Science Degree in Music and Sociology at North Carolina Central University, graduating in 1959.

Following graduation, Joyce relocated to Brooklyn, New York. She joined the City of New York's Department of Social Services as a dedicated social worker, serving the community faithfully for 32 years. In addition to her full-time commitment as a social worker,  Joyce delved into real estate part-time. While in Queens, she mastered the art of selling real estate and became a strong listing agent. Joyce relocated to New Jersey, she and her daughter, Yvette, formed a successful mother-daughter team and Joyce proudly taught her daughter the ins and outs of servicing clients, negotiating, and marketing.  Their combined efforts and Joyce's unwavering dedication to client satisfaction earn her numerous accolades as a top producing real estate agent. Joyce relocated to Delaware and successfully sold real estate there.

Concurrently, she graced numerous churches in New York, New Jersey and Delaware as their Minister of Music, showcasing her extraordinary talents as a soprano, pianist, and organist. Joyce played by ear and composed music. She loved to praise the Lord and minister to others through music. Alongside her brother Skip and sister-in-law Shirley,  Joyce frequently hosted family jam sessions during Thanksgiving and Christmas, filling their homes with Gospel melodies. She continued to play the piano for her friends at Springhills Assisted Living in Somerset, New Jersey, until her health prevented her from doing so.

Joyce's love for cooking was legendary, and her home was always open to family and friends. Known for her mouthwatering macaroni and cheese, she delighted in hosting family gatherings, ensuring that everyone felt welcome and cherished.

Joyce's enduring legacy is cherished by her family. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Cheryl Yvette Etheridge - Farmer (Gareth) of South Plainfield, NJ; her beloved granddaughter, Bhrianna Farmer – Franco (Andrew) of Piscataway, NJ; and great granddaughter, Gianna Gabrielle Franco. She is also survived by her cherish sister, Dr. Cheryl Gatling Riggins “Boobie” of Chester, VA; two nieces: Tova Gatling- Scarboro (Robert) of Pikeville, NC; and Chawanda Sims - Simpson of Hillsborough, NC; two nephews, Keith Andrew Gatling (Helene) of Birmingham, AL; Karl Anthony Sims (Jeneel) of Jacksonville, AL; a grandniece, Yolanda Simpson of Philadelphia PA: three sisters-in-law,  Shirley Gatling-Doctor, Carolyn Eason, and Kathelyn Etheridge: three brothers-in-law Banzette Etheridge, Eugene Etheridge, and Frankie Etheridge; and a host of special first cousins, children of cousins, and many bonus daughters: Terry, Debbie and Gail.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations can be made to Springhills Assisted Living, 473 Demott Lane, Somerset, NJ 08873 Attention: Springhills Director: Erio Rosario