Caroline Jane Gatten

Caroline Gatten ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Wright Funeral Home and Crematory - Franklin on Mar. 16, 2026.Franklin - Caroline Jane Gatten, 76, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026.Born in Franklin on April 6, 1949, Caroline lived a life defined by service, intellect, humor, and compassion. She was a lifelong learner, a caring professional, and a devoted friend and family member.Caroline grew up attending Franklin Congregational Christian Church on High Street, where she sang in the choir and helped with Sunday School. As a child, she was a proud Brownie and Girl Scout and spent her summers lifeguarding at the local YMCA pool.An outstanding student and natural athlete, Caroline excelled in basketball and tennis during her school years. She earned her degree in elementary education from Bridgewater College, later completing a Bachelor of Science degree at Old Dominion University and a Master of Social Work at Virginia Commonwealth University in 1975.Caroline's professional journey reflected both her curiosity and her heart for helping others. She began her career as an elementary school teacher in Virginia Beach, later transitioning into marketing research at Burke Marketing Research in Cincinnati, Ohio. In Chicago, she founded and ran her own marketing research firm serving clients nationwide. Returning to Franklin in the early 2000s to care for her mother, she continued her mission of service by working in Franklin and Hopewell schools overseeing substance abuse prevention programs. She later established Gatten Behavioral Health in Emporia, Virginia, where she provided counseling services until her health declined.Those who knew Caroline will remember her sharp wit, keen intelligence, and warm sense of humor. She was a steadfast caregiver, especially to her cousin Bernadine, whom she lovingly welcomed into her home and cared for during illness.Caroline is survived by her brothers, Dr. Burdette Gatten III and his wife Joann, and Charles Gatten and his wife Andrea Cherie; nieces, Dr. Gabrielle Gatten and her husband Daniel and Barclay Gatten; step nieces, Brianna LeVine PA-C and her husband Kevin and Erin Karmilovich Weaver and her husband Malachi; and her step nephew, Conner Karmilovich. She is also survived by her beloved cousin, Becky Jester, and Becky's husband, Frank. Caroline was like a sister to Becky and a loving presence in the lives of Becky's two children, Meredith DeLuca Martin and William DeLuca.She is also fondly remembered by her dear friends Sidney Dodson, Suzanne Bowman Nelson, and Linda Gecowets White, each of whom held a special place in her heart.A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.www.wrightfuneralhome.orgTo plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.