of Little Rock, AR
December 2, 1956 - May 25, 2024
On May 25, 2024, John Franklin Gould III, of Little Rock, Arkansas, went to be with the Lord. He was born to John and Patti Gould in Pensacola, Florida on December 2, 1956. He is preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Paul Gould. He leaves behind his wife, Beth Wilder Gould, his brother, Brian Gould (Susie) and 11 beloved nieces and nephews.
John graduated with a degree in Music Education from University of Central Arkansas. He completed graduate programs at University of Arkansas (music) and University of Arkansas at Little Rock (Visually Impaired). He was a gifted musician with perfect pitch and perfect click who played the clarinet, saxophone and piano. He performed with many name acts. Much of his teaching career was spent in Las Vegas and at the Arkansas School for the Blind. He published two jazz CD's: The Idea of South and Wouldwinds and wrote ''Finger Multiplication: A New Approach''. He loved all critters. Previous pets include snakes, coatimundi, ferrets, cats, dogs, ring tailed cat and most recently a rescued baby turtle. He broke the cycle.
In lieu of flowers, you are encouraged to make a donation to the charity of your choice.
A Celebration of Life is planned for June 6th at 11 AM at St. James United Methodist Church.
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4 Condolence(s)
Michelle Edwards
Wednesday, June 12, 2024
John was my favorite band teacher in school he taught me a lot about music and how to appreciate it I really going to miss this man. Thank you Mr Gold for teaching us how to play southern rock even though it was against the rules after school you didn't care about the rules you did what you thought we liked and you never let it stop you you always told us to dream big so we did. I'll never forget today in band class when I walked in and told you I want to be a bass player you looked at me and said how are you going to play a Bass with no guitar I told you I was going to get one I went and got one the next week and I became a bass player thank you Mr Cool you taught me how to play saxophone keyboard drums and a flute that I still don't know how to play LOL can't wait to see you on the other side love always your former student Michelle Edwards graduate of Arkansas school for blind 1998
Carolyn Pratt
Sunday, June 2, 2024
Beth —in the beginning of your story I was lucky enough to watch the two of you try hard not to “like” each other very much! The next thing we know , Perry and I were honored to attend your sweet wedding. When we first met I didn’t have children and next thing you know—you and John are playing the entrance music at my daughter, Virginia’s wedding. John was so special and you were perfect for each other! Please stay in touch and take care of you.
John Bales
Saturday, June 1, 2024
I just learned of John's passing. He was one of the Three Johns in Homer's Heroes Band (Gould, Armstrong, and Bales). John was indeed a gifted musician and I'm glad to learn he had an active career in music. I transferred to the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in the fall of 1977. We crossed paths there in the early 80s when we were both in graduate school there. My heart is heavy to learn of his passing. RIP my friend.
John Armstrong
Thursday, May 30, 2024
This is a shock! Prayers to John’s family!