Major (Ret.) Thomas Terrell Gattis, a proud veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully at the age of 84 on June 18, 2024. He was surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Jacksonville, Alabama. The son of Thomas Randolph and Clara Huddleston Gattis, was born on February 9, 1940, in Ripley, Mississippi. The memorial services honoring his life will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 27, at Nances Creek Baptist Church. Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. followed by a service at 6:00 p.m.
He loved spending time with his family, friends, and neighbors. He had a special love for his grandchildren and dog, Lily. At the age of 18, he enlisted in the United States Army. He was a proud member of the 101 Airborne Rangers. He loved his country and was proud to both serve and be a veteran. His decorations, medals, and badges were numerous during his 25 years of service. His dedicated service and love of country led him to serve in Vietnam where he received the Vietnam Service Medal with two overseas service bars. Other commendations include Master Parachutist badge, Ranger Tab, Army Commendation medal, Bronze Star and numerous other awards.
He is survived by his daughter, Teressa Gattis Pawlik of Homewood, AL; and son, David Terrell Gattis (Jenny) of Jacksonville, AL; four grandchildren, Kevin Michael Pawlik, Jr. (Anna) of Homewood, AL, Joshua Kenneth Terrell Pawlik (Elise) of Huntsville, AL, Abigail “Abby” Grace and Rachel Nicole Gattis of Jacksonville, AL; six great-grandchildren, Tripp, Miller Grace, and Thomas Pawlik of Homewood, AL and Hazel, Maeve, and Natalia Pawlik of Huntsville, AL; one sister, Jewel Marie Bryan; sister-in-law Lola Windham Hurt; brother-in-law Joe Windham and many special and wonderful nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Rachel Gattis; his parents; one sister, Betty Jean Gattis Windham; one brother, Terry Wade Paseur; brothers-in-law, Wayne, Leland, Robert, and Artie Windham and Willie Bryan; and sister-in-law, Mae Windham Moffit.
In lieu of flowers, he requested donations to be made to the Nances Creek Cemetery Fund, c/o Harold Ponder, 1377 Old Rocky Ridge Road, Jacksonville, AL 36265.
