Ann Manson Gatling went to heaven peacefully Monday afternoon, June 21, 2021. She was born March 29, 1925, in Norfolk, VA, daughter of William Ashby and Florence Spindler Manson and sister of William Ashby Manson Jr. She is predeceased by her loving husband of 60 years J. Edward Gatling Sr. Together they had many adventures loving and blessing their extended family; traveling to the Blue Ridge and Outer Banks; restoring a country farm house in Bath County; raising Norwegian Elkhounds; rock polishing, kite and jewelry making; and rebuilding local oyster beds. She is survived by three children, James Gatling Jr. (Donna), Sallie Volk (Ralph), and David Gatling (Susie Scott), and by her grand and great grandchildren: Rachel Felix (Chun), Erin and Tyler; Hannah Gatling; Mary Finks (Mark); Elisabeth Doyle (Matthew), Sophie and Dylan; Virginia Holmstrom (Timothy), Lucille, Ann, and Hazel; Angela White (Travis), Amelia and Benjamin; Wesley Gatling; and Kiel Gatling. Ann was additionally blessed with many dear nieces, nephews, and friends. Ann graduated from Maury High School and the College of William and Mary. She worked as a social worker coordinating adoption processes for the city of Norfolk; one of her greatest joys was bringing together loving families. Other employment included Tidewater Psychiatric Institute, the fuel assistance program, and the Census. Ann had a natural zest for mission and outreach projects. She was baptized at and a lifelong member of Epworth United Methodist Church. Notable service activities there include serving two terms as President of Women of the Church, since renamed United Methodist Women, and helping bring the Norfolk Emergency Shelter Team Organization to Epworth. She also served with quiet dedication as Sunday School teacher/superintendent, Mobile Meals on Wheels delivery team member, Girl Scout Leader, and PTA member. Ann was known for her red-haired vivaciousness and charming personality. Her gift of hospitality was exceptional; she welcomed family and friends with endearing warmth, love, and open arms. Ann's rose garden was lovely, her lattice top cherry pie beautiful, and her scalloped potatoes the most delicious on earth! A memorial service will be conducted at 2PM Saturday June 25, 2021 at Epworth United Methodist Church, 124 West Freemason Street, Norfolk VA 23510 . In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society LLS.org, Epworth United Methodist Church, or the charity of your choice.­