In Loving Memory of Raymond Eugene Gould
January 25, 1947 – July 4, 2025
Raymond Eugene Gould passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 4, 2025, in Edmond, Oklahoma, at the age of 78. A proud veteran, a hard worker, a loving father, and a devoted grandfather, Raymond lived a life defined by strength, perseverance, and deep love for his family.
Born on January 25, 1947, in Ava, Missouri, Raymond’s early years shaped the resilient and grounded man he would become. He served his country in the United States Army with pride, and after his military service, continued a life of hard work and grit—laboring on offshore oil rigs and later founding and operating his own concrete construction company. He took pride in building things that lasted, both with his hands and through the legacy he left in the lives of those he touched.
Raymond was a man who laughed often and loved a good joke. With a quick wit and a mischievous grin, he had a gift for making others laugh—even in hard times. His sense of humor brought light to those around him and created countless memories filled with joy, teasing, and the kind of laughter that stays in your heart.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Beatrice Maurine Gould, in 2023, and by his cherished son, Brian Eugene Gould, in 2021. Though life brought him great loss, he remained steady and caring, holding his family close in both memory and presence.
He is survived by his daughters, Charlette Ray Whitley and Brenda Jean Whitebread; his treasured granddaughters, Claira Jean Whitebread and Sadie Jean Whitebread; and his sisters, Beth Tabler and Shirley Reeds. Each of them carries forward the spirit, stories, and wonderful sense of humor of the man who meant so much to them.
Raymond’s greatest joy in his later years was being “Grandpa”—a title he wore with love and pride. Whether laughing with Claira and Sadie, sharing stories from his rugged past, or simply being present, he found deep meaning in his role as a grandfather.
Raymond will be cremated in accordance with his wishes, and his ashes will be laid to rest alongside his wife and son in Junction City, Kansas—a place he always held close to his heart.
A graveside memorial honoring his life, legacy, and quiet strength will be held by his family on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Highland Cemetery.
Following the ceremony, please join us for a lunch buffet at the Sonesta Hotel (formerly Marriott), in the Raily Room.
Your presence would mean so much as we gather in remembrance and fellowship.