David Gatewood, 87, of Eastover, passed away on Wednesday, August 9, 2023, at his home.
He is a U.S. Army veteran who served for 22 years. He later worked at MJ Soffe for 25 years.
He was born and raised at Fort Defiance in Arizona near Navajo Indian Reservation, where he attended Ganado Missionary School. This is where he met the love of his life, Matilda Nielsen Gatewood. They married in 1956 and were married for 64 years before she passed in 2020.
He received multiple medals and decorations including: the Bronze Star, Master Parachutist Badge, National Defense Service Medal, Commendation Medal, and others. He attended Westminster Presbyterian Church, where he was very active as a member of the Men’s Breakfast, choir, and worship.
Left to cherish David’s memory are his daughters, Joni Gatewood-Hooten of Prescott, Arizona, and Terri Gatewood-Long and husband, Norvell, of Eastover; grandchildren, Joshua Miller, Ashlie Gatewood, Jamie Gatewood, Morgan Cotter, Madison Hooten, Tyler Gatewood, Cody Gatewood, and Jesse Gatewood; seven great-grandchildren; and all the others that they were fortunate enough to guide through life.
Services will be held in Arizona at a later date.
Arrangements by Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service & Crematory.