Anita Gatling

Anita Watford Gatling, (62), of Sunbury, North Carolina departed this life on Thursday, January 21, 2021.  She was born in Corapeake, NC on February 10, 1958, daughter of the late Mr. Ernest Lee Watford, Sr. and the late Mrs. Bessie Lee Watford.

Anita attended Gates County High School and later became employed as a cook/clerk in various convenience stores and restaurants throughout Gates County. She was an active member of Saint Paul Baptist Church in Sunbury, North Carolina, where she served on the Usher Board and other committees. Her love for Jesus Christ was no secret, and she constantly extended the invitation to Christ and her church to family and friends.

She was known for her sweet, shy spirit, her love for family and family gatherings, and her ability to endure life's difficult times. Anita was also known for her willingness to help in any way that she could. She was always there for her loved ones, often being called upon by family to babysit (multiple generations), to offer comfort and support when needed, or simply a listening ear when desired. Her carefree personality and giving spirit caused many to cling to her, and earned her the title of the "Cool Aunt" by her nieces, nephews, and others. Simply put, she was helpful, supportive, and kind and her presence will definitely create a void in many hearts and lives!

Anita was preceded in death by her twin sons Derrick and Dedrick Watford, and her three sisters: Maggie Watford, Mamie Hobbs, and Eula Mae Payton.

She is survived by her spouse, Sherman Gatling of Sunbury, North Carolina, two children: John Watford of Charlotte, North Carolina, and George Watford (Katrina) of Sunbury, North Carolina, her grandchildren: Derricia Leary, Jayden Watford, Davonte Stephens, Trinity Boone, and many adopted grandchildren, one sister: Thelma McClinton of Willingboro, New Jersey, two brothers: Ernest Watford, Jr. (Joan) of Suffolk, Virginia and Michael Watford, Sr. (Dilann) of Corapeake, North Carolina, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.  

The family will receive members of the community on Tuesday January 26, 2021 from 3:00pm-6:00pm at the funeral home.  A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday January 27, 2021 at 11:00am at Upper Room Assembly.

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