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 married Tina L. Kenworthy at the Foursquare Church in Parsons. She survives of the home.

Other survivors include two sons, Brian Gatton Jr. and his wife, Johna, of Oswego and Brandon Gatton and his wife, Adrienne, of Chanute; 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 and Duane Merchant of Roff, Oklahoma; and numerous nieces and nephews.

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

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

The family suggests memorials to P.A.L.S. and can be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS, 67357.

Leave online condolences at www.forbeshoffman.com.