James L. Auchter, 88, of Reading, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2026, surrounded by his children. He was the husband of the late Margaret E. (Koons) Auchter, with whom he celebrated 54 years of marriage. Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late George and Anna (Parks) Auchter. Jim graduated from Reading Central Catholic High School in 1956 and went on to earn his Master's Degree in Social Work from Kutztown University. He proudly served his country in the Untied States Air Force from 1960-1964. Jim then began a career dedicated to serving families and children. He was a guidance counselor at Amanda Stout Elementary School and then worked for several decades at Berks County Children and Youth Services where he eventually served as Executive Director. Jim then went to work in Washington D.C. in grant administration for the National Center on Child Abuse and Neglect. Jim retired in 1998, at which time he and Margaret relocated back to Reading, PA.

Jim also enjoyed volunteering into his 80's. He served as the co-leader of a family group for the Berks County Chapter of N.A.M.I., and as reading tutor at both the Berks County Prison and the Reading School District. Jim was a skilled handyman, an avid tennis player, and he loved gardening and traveling.

Jim is survived by his children, Margaret K. Girardi, partner of David Correale, Matthew K. Auchter, husband of Suzanne, and Jonathan J. Auchter, partner of Shadae Casiano as well as their children Charlie, Lela, and Tyson. He is also survived by his grandson, Nicholas Girardi, husband of Emma, his brother Bernard Auchter, husband of Maureen, his sisters-in-law, Rita Auchter, Patricia Auchter, and Mary Ellen Koons, his brother-in-law Fulton Koons, husband of Susie, and many nieces and nephews. Jim was preceded in death by his siblings George Auchter, Msgr. John Auchter, Karl Auchter, Josephine Frederick, and Louise Auchter, his brother-in-law Malcolm "Oss" Koons, and his sister-in-law Bertha Koons.

A celebration of life will be held privately at the convenience of Jim's family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jim's memory to NAMI Berks County PA (namiberkspa.org). Lutz Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with arrangements.