The life and legacy of Billy Joe Gould began on October 28, 1937, He was born to Altimore and Irene Gould in Kirvin, Texas. At an early age, Billy accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior while attending Streetman Church of God in Christ. Later in life, he rededicated his life to Christ and was baptized at Bethel Primitive Progressive Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor B. L. Smith.

 

Billy was a talented, sharp, and determined young man who excelled in the Wortham Independent School District. He was well known for his courage, strength, and endurance throughout life’s journey. Billy graduated from Wortham High School in 1955 at the age of 18. 

 

In 1959, he met and married the love of his life, Mamie “a.k.a. Sweet” Tippens in Mexia, Tx. Soon after, they left their small country town and made their home in Fort Worth Tx. To this union, they were blessed with their beloved daughter, Vicky D. Davis

 

Billy worked faithfully as a truck driver for 35 years with Newman Brothers Trucking. Never afraid of hard work, he later became an entrepreneur, operating an upholstery business, wrecker service, and locksmith business.  He later retired and settled in Fairfield, Texas, where he enjoyed his later years.

 

Billy Joe faithfully served at Bethel Primitive Progressive Baptist Church as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and member of the Male Chorus, where he sang falsetto tenor. He also served at Saint Hill Church of God in Christ as a Sunday School teacher. Billy was a devoted husband, loving father, extraordinary grandfather, caring brother and uncle, and a faithful friend to many.

 

Billy was known by many as a true barbecue pit master and a connoisseur of sweet desserts. In the family, everyone knew that if Billy sent your dish back, you cannot cook. His opinion in the kitchen carried weight, and his love for good food, fellowship, and laughter brought family and friends together and created memories that will forever be cherished.

 

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Altimore and Irene Gould, sisters, Ima Jean Zimmerman, Alma Faye Ross, Cornelia Huckaby, Otharee Kelly and Betty Williams, and his brothers, Travis Gould, Clifton Gould, Walter Gould, Earl Gould, and John Thomas Gould.

 

Billy Joe leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife of 66 years, Mamie “Sweet” Gould; daughter, Vicky D. Davis (Paul); grandsons, JaKendreck Hart (Sonia), Jeremy Davis (Veronika), and JaCory Davis (Kali); great-grandsons, Edgar Luna and Pedro Ovila; great-granddaughter, Vivian Torres (Luis); great-great-grandson, Jacob Torres; brothers, Luther “Sonny” Gould, Jack Gould (Pricilla), and Fred Gould; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Billy Joe Gould’s life was a testimony of faith, hard work, love, and perseverance. His legacy will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.