Jean Gould

August 27, 1931 - March 14, 2026 Jean Norment Gould, a beloved educator, cherished wife, devoted mother, and treasured grandmother, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, at the age of 94. Her life, a tapestry woven with love, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to family and community, leaves an indelible mark on all who knew her. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on August 27, 1931, Jean was the cherished daughter of Gerald and Ruth Norment. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her dear husband, Richard "Dick" Gould, with whom she shared a beautiful marriage that began in 1953. Together, they crafted a life filled with love and adventure, raising two wonderful sons, Jeff (Ashley) and Jimmy (Katie), who survive her. Jean's passion for learning and education was evident from a young age. A proud graduate of Messick High School, she went on to earn her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Mississippi, followed by a Master of Arts degree from Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). Her career was dedicated to the field of education, where she touched countless lives as an English teacher at Riverdale High School and later at MTSU in Murfreesboro. Throughout her life, Jean was an active member of her community, giving generously of her time and talents. In Murfreesboro, she was a devoted 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. Her move to Nashville did not diminish her spirit of involvement, as she became a cherished member of Belmont Methodist Church and enthusiastically participated in the Thursday Book Club and other activities at Richland Place. Jean's love of books and reading was a lifelong passion, and she could often be found engrossed in a good book or tackling the latest crossword puzzle. Her fascination with England and Queen Elizabeth brought her joy and amusement, while her family's travels were a constant source of delight as she eagerly followed their adventures on "Find My Friends." Jean's legacy lives on through her family, including her treasured grandchildren, Taylor, Lindsey, Estes, Scott, Meg, and Wellford, step-grandchildren Mary Katherine and Will, and her eight great-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life. A celebration of Jean's remarkable life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Richland Place, located at 500 Elmington Ave., Nashville. 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, honoring Jean's spirit of generosity and love. 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 legacy is one of love, grace, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Her memory will forever be cherished, and her spirit will continue to inspire those whose lives she touched. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.