James "Ken" Kenneth Gauthier

James Kenneth Gauthier, lovingly known as “Ken” to his friends and family, went to be with Jesus on Monday, August 12, 2024, at the age of 77. He was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to Milburn and Mary Lee Gauthier. Ken attended Catholic High School and graduated college from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Ken had a long career as a pharmacist where he owned his own store “The Prescription Shoppe” and eventually retired from Walgreens Pharmacy.

Ken was generous, compassionate and hardworking. He had a servant’s heart with his greatest spiritual gift being his acts of service to others. Ken never hesitated to help people out and was a humble man who did not want recognition for anything. Ken was loved and admired by all who knew him.

Ken’s love for Jesus was evident in everything he did with his life and he touched the lives of everyone who came in contact with him. Ken dedicated his time and prayers for almost thirty years to incarcerated men at the Gwinnett County Detention Center through the Prison Fellowship Ministry where he wrote letters, mentored men, and had weekly Bible Studies.

In 2002, Ken started the Angel Tree Football Camp with NFL Coach Jerry Rhome where they teamed up with NFL players to offer instruction and inspiration for boys who were 12-17 years old and had fathers that were serving time in prison. The program was designed to introduce kids to a strong male role model.

Ken impacted many kids’ lives. He was very active in his church and felt it was important to share his love of Jesus with others. Ken touched countless lives over the years and his influence will forever live on with those who were lucky enough to meet him.

Ken devoted his time to promoting and supporting the Christian band “Sundry” that began with his son and other bandmates when they were in High School as he saw the impact their music had on those who came to their concerts.

Ken was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor. He enjoyed spending time with his family. Ken was an avid fan of college football, and you would find him watching his LSU Tigers on any given Saturday. Geaux Tigers! Ken loved bass fishing and spent hours at Lake Oconee or Lake Sinclair trying to catch a “big un” with his childhood best friend. He enjoyed playing golf, gardening, and raising chickens. Ken was very creative and added a personal touch with all the projects he did for his family and friends. He was also a practical joker who would do anything for a laugh and enjoyed a good dare.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents and his wife of 38 years Lynda (Smith). Ken is survived by his wife Martha Gauthier; his children, Kevin Gauthier, Kristin Nix (Greg), Brian Gauthier (Victoria), and Wesley Gauthier (Lily); his stepchildren, Jeff Shideler and Jodi Mildren (Phil); his grandchildren, Ava Gauthier, Noah Nix, Joshua Nix, Gavin Gauthier, and Gracyn Gauthier; his step grandchildren, Brady Shideler and Brett Shideler. Ken is also survived by his brothers, Lionel Gauthier and Russell Gauthier (Ann) as well as his nephews, Brett Gauthier and Darren Gauthier.

Ken will be remembered for his big heart and giving nature. He truly loved his family and friends and prayed for them daily. As we say goodbye to Ken, we are comforted knowing he is in peace and cancer free. We know Jesus welcomed Ken into heaven with open arms and said to him, “Well done my good and faithful servant.”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 10:00 A.M. at Bethlehem Church South Venue located at 548 Christmas Avenue, Hwy 11 North Bethlehem, GA 30620.

In lieu of flowers, Ken would have preferred you have a personal relationship with Jesus and love your family and friends unconditionally.