James Donovan "Donnie" Gethers, son of Joseph James and Flora West Gethers, was born on May 25, 1957 in New Haven, CT. He departed this life on April 23, 2009. James graduated from Hillhouse High School, New Haven, CT in 1975. Upon completion of high school he moved to California for a short period of time with his uncle, Harry Gethers. James later returned to New Haven where he attended South Central Community College and the University of New Haven. In 1978, James joined his family in South Carolina. He served in the Army National Guard of South Carolina. He worked in construction before joining the Berkeley County School District Maintenance Department. He worked with the county for twelve years until his health began to fail. He also had his own lawn care service. James, at an early age, became a member of St. Paul Union American Methodist Episcopal Church, New Haven, CT. He became a member of Mt. Carmel A.M.E. Church after relocating to South Carolina. At Mt. Carmel, James sang on the Senior and Male Choirs. His baritone voice leading and singing praises to the Lord. James was united in marriage to Jannie Brown. He had a love for people, he never met a stranger. He enjoyed going to schools, speaking to young people who struggled with the challenges of growing up. This love for youth inspired him to establish "Fresh Start", a program designed to let others know that with God's help one can overcome adversities. An extension of this ministry was New Year's Eve services, which ushered in the New Year through songs and praise. James will be greatly missed by all who knew him. His words of encouragement, contagious smile, and his famous "bear hug"! His memory will forever be cherished by his devoted wife, Jannie; stepchildren: Tammy L. Mack of Manhattan, NY, Angela (Robert) Hostler of Columbia, MD and Edwin J. Washington of Ridgecrest, CA; his parents, Joseph and Flora Gethers of Moncks Corner, SC; siblings, Marina A. Gethers of Cantonsville, MD and Joseph O. (Elizabeth) Gethers of Pineville, SC; aunts, Ethel G. Davis, Alma G. Brown, Sarah L. West, Rev. A. Rebecca West and Mattie A. Gethers; uncles, David (Evelyn) Gethers, Harry Gethers, Rev. Dr. George L. (Mary) West and Francis (Carrie) Wright; brother-in-law, Richard (Velma) Brown; sisters-in-law, Mary Simmons, Lizzie M. (Milton) Smith and Rev. Nellie M. Barnett; a special nephew, Markeith Lloyd; his loving godparents, John and Rebecca Cunningham; a host of nieces, nephews, adopted children, two godchildren, family and friends.