Myrtle (Gatling) Mason Wilson passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, in Newport News, Virginia- the city where she was born on June 12, 1937. Myrtle's life was marked by her boundless energy, sunny disposition, and the countless acts of kindness she extended to those around her. Myrtle was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Nannie Gatling; her first husband, Robert Mason; four brothers- Joseph Gatling, Jr., Stan Gatling, Robert Gatling, and Thomas (Dicky) Gatling; four sisters- Shirley Gatling, Gloria Godfrey, Jeanette Hall, and Betty Parker; and her grandson, Jason Burris.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 48 years, Randy Wilson; her children, Pamela Burris and Keith Mason; son-in-law, Carl Burris, and daughter-in-law, Nicole Mason. Myrtle was a cherished grandmother to Ian and Abbey Mason, and Sarah Howard and her husband, James; and a proud great-grandmother to Nathan, Matthew, and Noel Howard. She is also survived by her brother, William Gatling, his wife, Carolyn, and many nieces and nephews.

Myrtle was an excellent cook and party planner. She truly loved her entire family and hosted many bridal and baby showers thorough the years. She also organized annual family picnics and Christmas parties. She lovingly spoiled her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

For many years Myrtle worked in the field of communications. She began her career as a switchboard operator for the telephone company. She later worked for several companies, including Electronic Service, Gately Communications, and Metrocall. Ultimately she started her own business, Whisper Communications, Inc. Myrtle retired over thirty years ago, leaving plenty of time to travel the United States and Europe. She enjoyed gardening, making scrapbooks and window art, and playing word searches. For several years she led the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Mission for West Hampton Baptist Church.

The family will receive friends at W.J. Smith Funeral Home on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. followed by a service to celebrate her life at 2:00 p.m. Interment will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park.

Those who wish to express sympathy are invited to make a contribution in Myrtle's honor to Operation Christmas Child Shoebox Mission (Samaritan's Purse), an organization  she passionately supported. Myrtle's legacy of warmth and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.