Kenneth Henry "Ken" McAllister

Kenneth Henry “Ken” McAllister, age 85 of Clarkesville, passed away on Thursday October 17, 2024.

Born on April 3rd, 1939, he was the son of the late Henry Gladys McAllister and Ethel Allene Allen of Clarkesville. He was a 1956 graduate of Clarkesville High School. Ken started work as a school bus driver and took a position at Stewart Dodge as a mechanic.  After several years of experience and additional automotive training, Ken built and opened “McAllister’s Garage” on Highway 441. He operated the shop from 1974 to 2000, specializing in carburetor and air conditioning repair. He continued to drive the school bus for several years after opening the shop and if you meet someone over 50 that grew up around Clarkesville, they will tell you “Ken McAllister was my school bus driver since I was this tall”.

Ken married the love of his life, Carolyn Jean Ayers in 1966 and they spent 58 years together.  In addition to his wife, he is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Ken was an avid hunter and fisherman, who twice made the cover of Georgia Outdoor News with his record catches.

While never having children of his own, he and Carolyn were very instrumental in the lives of many neighbors and family members children, making sure that his love of cars and the outdoors was passed on to the next generation. This showed his love for kids and for teaching them about the things were important to him.  One of those things was holding the fish out in front of you for the picture, so that the fish appeared larger than they actually were.

Another favorite pastime in later years was spending time with great friends at Nails Creek Auction, where he loved a good bargain and laughing with his friends.

Well known for his witty sayings, his favorite would have to be “I can guaran (damn) tee it”.

Funeral services are 3 pm on Sunday, October 20, 2024, in the Chapel of McGahee-Griffin & Stewart with Rev. Jerrell Beatty officiating.  Interment will follow in Tates Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1 pm until the service hour on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at the funeral home.

An online guest register is available and may be viewed at www.mcgaheegriffinandstewart.com

McGahee-Griffin & Stewart Funeral Home of Cornelia, Georgia (706/778-8668) is in charge of arrangements.