David Wayne Gonthier

David Wayne Gonthier, affectionately known as Davo, Dad, Uncle Dave and most importantly as Paw Paw, lived a beautiful life. David was born in Alexandria, Louisiana on December 19, 1958 just shy of Christmas, one of his favorite holidays. Shortly after his birth, he moved to New Orleans where he spent his early years in the Irish Channel living above the family owned, Gonthier's Pharmacy. As the oldest child to Barbara R. Gonthier, David became a big brother to Paul, Lorraine, and Michele over the course of this first 12 years. Later moving to Terrytown, Louisiana and attending Archbishop Shaw High School (class of 1976), he met his high school sweetheart, Tina Underwood, who would become his wife in the summer of 1979.
Since meeting, Tina and David were inseparable and embarked on many adventures. The adventure of which he drew the most pride was his fatherhood. David was the proud parent of both Kristen M. Roberson and Kari L. Gonthier. As a father, he worked hard in both Louisiana and later Alabama to make sure his girls knew that their dreams were supported; they received a Catholic education; established a deep love for Mardi Gras; and they knew their way around Louisiana sports, especially LSU. As a lover of history and music, he shared those passions with his children taking them to monuments, museums, concerts (rock & roll), musicals and plays. These same things were true when his two grandchildren, Avery N. Baldassaro and Braydon W. Roberson, were born. Every ounce of strength and passion was present to make sure his grandchildren were well traveled, happy, and above all, loved. His heart and soul beat for his family and to quote one of his favorite musicals (as he often did) "The Fiddler on the Roof," he believed in "Tradition!"
If you were lucky enough to meet David, you likely labeled him as one of the funniest people you have ever met. His humor (colorful at times) will live on. Even on his toughest days, he was able to use laughter to bring comfort to his family and friends. This laughter spoke to a deeper quality, which many express to describe him, and that quality is kindness. That kindness attracted many friends that were considered family. He shared this kindness with family, friends, and also through his work as a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus. This organization brought him immense joy in the last few years and helped him to serve the community at large and in particular Catholic Youth Organizations.
Living life to the absolute fullest was a trademark of David's. He was so blessed to be able to share those adventures with his wife, Tina, and those closest to him. He will live in our hearts forever and serve as a guardian angel to all those he held dear.
David passed away in Alabaster, Alabama on Wednesday, November 8, 2023. He is preceded in death by Lorraine Gonthier (sister). He is survived by his mother: Barbara A. Gonthier, his wife: Tina Gonthier, daughter: Kristen M. Roberson & son-in-law Brandon Roberson, daughter: Kari L. Gonthier & son-in-law David A. Hunt, his grandchildren: Avery N. Baldassaro & Braydon W. Roberson, his siblings: Paul M. Gonthier (Holly Boslet) & Michele G. Hemelt (Christian Hemelt), his best friend: Joseph R. Chivleatto, Jr., as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Family, friends, and others are invited to celebrate the life of David this Thursday, November 16, 2023 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 5514 Double Oak Lane, Birmingham, Alabama 35242. Viewing will be 9:00AM to 12:00PM with a funeral mass following at 12:00PM. Immediately following mass will be graveside services at Montevallo Cemetery, Co Rd 73, Montevallo, AL 35115.
As an expression of sympathy, flower donations may be sent to the church address listed above. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church High School Youth Group in memory of David Gonthier.