J. Edward Gatling

J. Edward Gatling VIRGINIA BEACH - J. Edward Gatling, Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU), died April 22, 2010 at Sentara Leigh Hospital. Ed was born in Norfolk July 14, 1923, graduated from Maury High School, received a bachelor's degree from Duke University, and was noted in the Who's Who of American Colleges and Universities. As a teenager, Ed survived polio and spent time in an iron lung because of his illness. He pursued a career in life insurance and financial counseling with Jefferson Pilot Life Insurance Company. After retiring 20 years ago because of complications with post polio syndrome, he participated in many community service projects, most recently with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. He encouraged teachers and students to clean the bay by building oysters reefs. His hobbies included gardening, making "kites for kids," collecting semi-precious stones, and making jewelry. Ed, along with three others, established the Chair of Insurance at Old Dominion College where he taught the Chartered Life Underwriter course. He was a lifetime member of the Epworth United Methodist Church where he served in many capacities. He was also recently honored as a 50- year participant and charter member of the Suburban Kiwanis Club of Norfolk. Ed is survived by his wife of 60 happy years, Ann Manson Gatling and their three children, Jim Gatling, Sallie Gatling Volk and David Gatling, and their respective spouses Donna, Ralph and Holly. He is also survived by eight grandchildren, Rachel Felix, Hannah Gatling, Mary Gatling, Elisabeth Doyle, Virginia Holmstrom, Angela White, Wesley Gatling, and Kiel Gatling; his brother, Myrlon Gatling; and sister, Estelle Gatling Potts. Moreover, Ed is survived by five great-grandchildren, all of whom he spent time with in the last few months. A memorial service will be conducted at 1:30 p.m. Monday, April 26, at Epworth United Methodist Church, 124 West Freemason St., Norfolk VA 23510. A reception will follow the service in the church social hall. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, 142 West York St., Suite 618, Norfolk ,VA 23510 or Epworth United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be offered to the family through www.hdoliver.com.