On Thursday, October 16, 2025, God called our beloved Dad, Brother, Grandfather, Uncle, Cousin, and Friend home to rest in His eternal arms. Leroy, as he was affectionately called by family and friends, peacefully departed this life at Bon Secours Southside Regional Medical Center.

Prince was born in Southampton County, Virginia on August 23, 1949, to the late Prince Albert Artis and Carrie Hilliard Artis.  He was preceded in death by his wife Myretta Gatling Artis; his siblings, George Danny Hilliard, Jane Johnson, and Glenn Hilliard.

His favorite pass time was reading his Bible and his favorite scripture was Psalm 23.

Prince attended public schools in Suffolk, Virginia and later went on to join the Job Corps.  He worked several years at the Virginia Diner and alongside his brother Archie laying bricks.

Prince leaves to cherish his precious memory a son, Quentin Gatling (Jovonda) of Bowie, Maryland; a loving sister Carrie Ricks (Hardy) of Suffolk, VA; two brothers, James Larry Artis (Geraldine) of Georgia, Archie Lee Artis (Frenchie) of Wakefield, VA;  two grandchildren, Sydney and Savannah; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Leroy as he was affectionately called by family and friend was a quiet, kind and humble man who will be sorely missed.

A Funeral Service will be 1:00pm Saturday, October 25, 2025 at Oak Grove Baptist Church 38070 Rocky Hock Road, Wakefield, Virginia 23888, Rev. Melvin Little Jr. Pastor.  Interment will follow immediately at Booker T. Memorial Park, Terrapin Swamp Road, Wakefield, Virginia.

Public Viewing will be 10:00am - 5:00pm Friday, October 24, 2025 at Peace Funeral Home 237 Railroad Avenue, Waverly, Virginia.