Freestone County, Texas
Obituaries


Bishop Tyree Gatson, Sr.

Bishop Tyree Gatson, Sr. was born December 22, 1926, in Fairfield, to Willie and 
Verila Gatson.

Tyree had a long and productive life. He was a proud World War II veteran, 
Christian, minister, outdoorsman, and a devoted husband and father. Those who 
were touched by him understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the 
quantity of time in which one lives. His gentle smile and caring heart brought 
much joy to his family.

Tyree gave us all such courage and hope and reminded us of the preciousness of 
life. He loved the Lord, ministry and church. He founded Gatson Temple, which is 
now known as New Birth Christian Center. Tyree also had a passion for hunting, 
fishing and farm life and fulfilled that passion at the family farm in Oakwood, 
where all of his time was spent apart from the ministry.

Tyree went home to be with the Lord, September 27, 2014. His final days were 
spent with his wife, Rachel Gatson, at True Care Living Center in Palestine. He 
was preceded in death by his parents; sister, May Pearl Alexander; brother, Aubry 
Gatson; and son, Sandras Gatson.

Tyree is survived by his loving wife, Rachel K. Gatson, to whom he was married 
for 63 years; children, Tyree (Ruby) Gatson, Sr., Dale Gatson, Earnest Gatson, 
Kathy Gatson, Mitch (Anita) Gatson, and Joe Ellis; brothers, Willie (Bonnie) 
Gatson, Jr., Walter Ray (Lois) Gatson, Daniel (Jean) Gatson, Linbirgh (Esther) 
Gatson, Melvin (Deloris), Alvin (Glendora) Gatson and Maurice Gatson; sisters, 
Excell (Allen) Groggs, Laynetta Turner and Mary (Supt. L.J.) Manning; and a host 
of uncles, aunts, relatives, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.