Stephen Francois Gauthier

Stephen Francois Gauthier, a beloved husband, devoted father, and cherished grandfather, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, in Ardmore, Tennessee. Born on February 17, 1943, in Alexandria, Louisiana, Stephen was the son of Lawrence Paul and Doretta Jean Gauthier. Stephen's life was a testament to dedication and love, both to his family and his country. After attending St. Rita's, Menard Memorial High School, and Bolton High School, he chose to serve his nation with honor. During his 20-year tenure in the U.S. Army, Stephen earned the Purple Heart for his brave service, including 31 challenging months in Vietnam. His military career was marked by commitment and courage, qualities that remained with him throughout his life. On April 18, 1969, Stephen married the love of his life, Gloria Jean Antee. Together, they crafted a beautiful life filled with love and laughter over their 57 years of marriage. Stephen and Gloria raised two devoted sons, Chadwick Brian Gauthier and Stephen Randall Gauthier (wife Krista), whose lives continue to reflect the values their father instilled in them. Stephen and Gloria's union was not only a partnership but a beacon of enduring love and mutual respect. Their family grew to include five grandsons—Bradley Stephen (wife Morgan), Jack McKenzie (mother Jennifer McKenzie), Miles Remy, Marshall Randall, and MacArthur Rhodes—along with three great-grandchildren: Archer, Remington, and Roux. After retiring from the Army, Stephen dedicated another 20 years of his life to the U.S. Post Office, where he served as a station manager, known for his diligence and integrity. His work ethic was a cornerstone of his character, and he tirelessly provided for his family, ensuring their comfort and happiness. Stephen's passions extended beyond his professional life. He found joy in gardening, raising rabbits and a variety of birds, including exotic species, chickens, and quail. He had a deep love for the outdoors, particularly fishing for catfish with his homemade noodles—a pastime that was as much about the peace it brought him as the fish he caught, even if backing up a boat remained a humorous challenge. Stephen’s passion for sports—especially LSU football and Los Angeles Lakers basketball during the Kobe Bryant era—was something he enthusiastically shared with family and friends, often sparking lively conversations. These interests were more than mere hobbies; they were moments of shared excitement with family and friends, weaving deeper bonds with those he loved. Stephen is survived by his devoted wife, Gloria, who stood by his side through the many chapters of their life together; his sons, Chadwick and Randall (Krista); his brothers, James and Gregory Gauthier; his sisters, Anita Vlk and Kathryn Kinalidis; and a legacy of grandchildren, Bradley, Jack, Miles, Marshall, and MacArthur, and great-grandchildren, Archer, Remington, and Roux. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lawrence and Doretta, and his siblings, Joseph, H. Pierre, Richard, Mary Conway, Juanell Greer, and Gwendolyn Gonzales. Stephen Francois Gauthier's life was a tapestry of love, duty, and unwavering perseverance. He was a man who worked tirelessly, lived fully, and loved deeply. His memory will forever be cherished in the hearts of his family and friends, and his spirit will continue to inspire all those who knew him.