John Gatewood was mentioned in the 21 April 1753 will of his grandfather William Cox. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 9, pages 291–295.]

John Gatewood was mentioned in the 1762 will of his father John Gatewood. [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 12, page 33.]

On 1 December 1764, the estate of John Gatewood was divided by Thomas Roane, James Upshaw and John Latane between the widow and children. Equal lots at 69.11.3 went to Mrs Frances Gatewood, Mr Philip Gatewood, Mr John Gatewood and Mr Chiney Gatewood. Recorded 20 October 1766 [Essex County, Virginia, Will Book 12, pages 248–249.]