WTVM anchor Barbara Gauthier has roots in Harris County

Sept. 9, 2008

WAVERLY HALL, Ga. (WTVM) -- More than 20 years ago a small town girl named Barbara Willis left Waverly Hall to see the world.

"She's the down home country girl who's been to the big city, but she's a country girl at heart," said Childhood Friend Monica McGhee.

"She is an extremely nice young lady.  She came from a family that expected a lot from their children," said Barbara's Former English Teacher.

Barbara graduated from Harris County High School in 1976.  The old high school she remembers is now the current middle school.  She was active in the Student Government Association, Beta Club, and cheered on the Harris County Tigers cheer squad.  "If you know Barbara and her personality, you know she's a talker.  It's no surprised she chose a career in journalism," said Barbara's Former Social Studies Teacher.

It's no secret Barbara knows how to deliver the news, but she's a singer at heart.  "We had a singing group called the Fantastic five.  She was one of the lead singers of course hogging the microphone," said McGhee.

"I remember one of our teachers let us perform in front of the class.  It was so much fun," said WTVM Anchor Barbara Gauthier.

"She is a mic hog, but whenever we sing we are like don't give Barbara the microphone.  If we do give it to her she'll turn a three minute song into a 10 minute song," said Barbara's Sister Sherry Anderson.

Barbara went on to work in Dallas, Cleveland, Atlanta, Washington D.C. and in Connecticut where she met her husband Robbie Gauthier of 16 years.  They have an 8-year-old daughter and 13-year-old son.  She spent several years away from home, but her family and friends are glad she's back.  "I was so glad and I really didn't believe it.  I was so happy to find out she was coming back home," said Barbara's Mother Freddie Mae Willis.

"When I was young I felt like I needed to get away, but you later figure out in life that you want to do what you love around your family," said Gauthier.

"She's going to be a mover and shaker.  I just want to say Columbus get ready," said Jackson.