Brian L. Gatton

Brian L. Gatton, Sr., 57, passed away Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri, after sustaining serious injuries from an accident on Sunday, September 22, 2024.

Brian Lee Gatton was born on April 7, 1967, to Robert L. and Nola (Turner) Gatton in Parsons.  He grew up and attended school in Altamont, graduating from Labette County High School in 1985.

In 1986, Brian enlisted in the United States Army Reserves.  While in the Reserves, he was a truck driver for WSKT.  He was deployed and served in Desert Storm (the Persian Gulf War) and Operation Iraq Freedom III.  After being honorably discharged, he continued his service in the National Guard.  He served his country for almost 22 years.  When he returned from his last deployment in January 2006, Brian began driving for Old Dominion.  He drove a truck for 29 years.

Brian had a huge love for his family, friends, neighbors and his country.  His generous spirit continues as the donation of his organs will help many people throughout the United States.  He lived life to its fullest, enjoying hunting, fishing, and taking care of his hobby farm, tractors and cows.

On March 5, 1988, Brian and Tina L. Kenworthy were united in marriage at the Four-Square Church in Parsons.  She survives of the home.

Other survivors include:

Two sons – Brian Gatton, Jr. and his wife, Johna, of Oswego, Kansas

Brandon Gatton and his wife, Adrienne, of Chanute, Kansas

Four grandchildren – Oakley, Easton, Jack and Lucy

Three brothers – Tim Gatton and his wife, Linda, of Oregon

John Gatton and his wife, Angela, of Parsons, Kansas

Duane Merchant of Roff, Oklahoma

Numerous nieces and nephews

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Christina Hall.

The funeral service will be at 2:00 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2024, at the Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home in Parsons.  Burial will follow at Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Altamont.  The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Sunday, at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to P.A.L.S. and can be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.