Joe Robert Cauthen, Jr., age 60, of LaFayette was born November 19, 1964, was a devoted Christian and a member of the Old Way Baptist Church. He was a loving husband, proud father, and a selfless brother and son, with his family being the heart of his life. Joe's love for the outdoors began in his early years as a Boy Scout, and he developed a lifelong passion for hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking, heavily influenced by his late uncles, Mike Surrett and Eddy Gilreath. An avid hunter, Joe had trophies and stories to share for days. A proud Georgia Bulldawg- Joe never missed a game. On any given Saturday, Joe could be heard yelling “How ‘bout them dawgs!?” Joe was known for his unwavering work ethic, with his contributions visible throughout the City of LaFayette and beyond.
Joe loved fiercely—his family, his friends, and even his fur babies, Dolly and Porter, held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Emily Cauthen, and his grandparents, Zeb and Gladys Snider, and Allen and Martha Surrett.
He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly forty years, Sonja, and their children Tiffany Carmon (John Hilton), Tristan Cauthen (Alicia Hampton), Cassie (Jeremy) Keith, and Hayley (Nicholas) Pendergrass. His grandchildren—Coy Pendergrass, Zeb Cauthen, Emma Baker, Kooper Keith, Jenna Baker, Zoe Cauthen, Kaylee Keith, and Luke Baker—were a constant source of joy for him. Joe also leaves behind his brother Jeff Cauthen and sister Stacey (Jason) Watts, along with his nieces and nephews Jeffery Cauthen, Addison, and Brody Watts, Shelly Keown, Jake Hines, Emmitt, Eli, and Etta Mitchell; several great nieces and great nephews; brother-in-law Ronnie (Gina) Mitchell; and sister-in-law Kristy (Chris) Wallace.
Funeral service will be held 4:00 pm Monday, April 14, in the Wilbanks Memorial Chapel with Brother Joseph Thompson and Preacher Josh Edwards officiating. Interment at LaFayette City Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Luke Baker, Zeb Cauthen, Coy Pendergrass, Jim Green, Christopher Lewis, Chuck Bohannon, and Malcolm Pickard.
Honorary pallbearers are Jeff Cauthen Sr., Jason Watts, John Hilton, Tristan Cauthen, Jeremy Keith, Nicholas Pendergrass, Ronnie Mitchell, Jeffery Cauthen, Rivers Pickard, Paris Pickard, Aaron Green, Larry Timmons, Brody Watts, and the City of LaFayette Public Works and Gas Department.
A special thank you to Hearth Hospice and nurse Cassandra Wallin for their compassionate care. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to all those who have offered love and support during this difficult time.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm Sunday, April 13, and from 2:00 pm to the hour of service on Monday at the funeral home.
Arrangements are by Wallis-Wilbanks Funeral Home, LaFayette.
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