Jean Gould

Jean Norment Gould, age 94, died March 14, 2026 at The Health Center at Richland Place. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Jean was the daughter of Gerald and Ruth Norment, who predeceased her, as did her devoted husband of 58 (?) years Richard "Dick" Gould. Jean's life was a rich tapestry of love, learning, and service. She graduated from Messick High School in Memphis and went on to earn her BA degree from the University of Mississippi and her MA degree from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). Her passion for education led her to a career teaching English at Riverdale High School and MTSU, where she inspired countless students with her wisdom and enthusiasm. Jean's dedication extended beyond the classroom and into her community. In Murfreesboro, she was an active member of St. Mark's Methodist Church, the Craddock Study Club, the MTSU Dames Club, the Murfreesboro Woman's Club, and the League of Women Voters. After moving to Nashville, she continued her community involvement at Belmont Methodist Church and the Graham Inquirer's Sunday School class became an important source of support through the end of her life. A woman of diverse interests, Jean found great joy in books and reading and will be remembered for countless book reviews she gave that always left the attendees wanting to read the book discussed. She had such a love for anything British that her family seated her on a throne with a banner that said "Queen Jean" for her 90th birthday celebration. She delighted in following her family's travels through the Find My Friends app, always eager to share in their adventures. Jean's greatest legacy is her family, whom she cherished deeply. She is survived by her loving sons, Jeff (Ashley) and Jimmy (Katie), and her treasured grandchildren: Taylor, Lindsey, Estes, Scott, Meg, Wellford, and step-grandchildren Mary Katherine and Will. Her legacy continues on in the lives of her eight great-grandchildren. A service to celebrate Jean's life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Richland Place, located at 500 Elmington Avenue, Nashville, with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Gould Scholarship Fund, Alive Hospice, or a charity of your choice. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Richland Place Health Center, Alive Hospice, and Jean's dedicated caregivers from HomeRN, whose compassionate care provided comfort in her final days. Jean Gould's life was one of grace and generosity, a testament to the power of love, education, and community. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and kindness, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.