Woodrow Gould

Mr. Woodrow Gould, affectionately known as "Woody," 65, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 8, 2024. He was a kind and fun-loving man who loved the Lord Jesus Christ and cherished his family deeply. Woody was born on April 16, 1959, in Mount Gilead, North Carolina, to the late Jessie Mae Flake Gould and Rueben (Martha) Gould, Sr. He grew up with strong family values and a passion for life that he carried throughout his years. Woody was a 1977 graduate of Albany High School, where he made lifelong friends and developed his love for music and community. After high school, Woody entered the workforce, dedicated to providing for his family. He found a long-term career with the Hilton franchise, where he worked diligently for several decades before he retired. His strong work ethic, reliability, and warm personality made him a respected and beloved colleague. Woody retired after a distinguished career, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment.

In addition to his love for fishing, Woody's life was marked by his deep love for music, a passion that brought him joy and connected him with others. He was a guest soloist at many services, sharing his voice and heart through song. Woody's talent and dedication to music led him to sing with various groups, including the Lex Norwood Group and Revelations of Time. He was also a part of the Mt. Zion choir, where he served as a long-time member and minister of music. His musical talents were cherished by all who knew him, and his contributions to the church community were immeasurable. Beyond his musical gifts, Woody was known for his infectious laughter, warm spirit, and unwavering faith. He was a pillar of strength and love for his family and a steadfast friend to many. Woody's kindness, generosity, and genuine care for others left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was a man of deep faith, finding comfort and guidance in his relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.

He is survived by his father, Rueben (Martha) Gould, Sr., Albany, N.Y. wife: Violet Gould ;his children; Tiana Sanders, Sandusky, OH, Pauline Willingham and Rufus McCain of Albany, N.Y., granddaughter, Yssa, his siblings, Rueben Gould, Jr. (Flora Jean Shabazz) Winston-Salem, NC, Martha Ann G. (Carl) West, Sandra Gould, Albany, NY, Walter (Michelle) Gould, Winston-Salem, NC; the late Lee Anthony Gould, step-brothers Yolandue Sturdivant, Ulyesse Sturdivant, the late Lyvette Sturdivant; step-sisters Rita (Gino) Uzell, Marcia (Reality) Gause, Alicia Sturdivant, and Sheena Sturdivant; uncle Esiah "June" Ingram; aunts, Madame Mary L. Flake (James) Haynie, Winston-Salem, NC, and Geneva Flake Horne, Lilesville, NC; a great aunt, Nora M. Cox, Charlotte, NC; cousins, Varie "Val" A. Haynie and Angela L. Haynie, Winston-Salem, NC; paternal aunts: Ella Mae Walter, Jonsey Watkins, Anne Williams, Jennie Mae Gould, paternal uncles: Arthur Gould, William Gould, Walter Gould, Illy Jr. Gould, Phillip Leroy Gould, devoted friends, Mr. Benny Mackey, Pastor Michael Williams, Mr. Gazell Scott, Mr. Sam Ford, Mr. Mark Ford, church Mother Mayo of New Jerusalem Home of the Saved Church, and his brothers in Christ on his beloved prayer line.

Woody leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends who will miss him dearly. Though there are too many loved ones to name individually, each held a special place in his heart. His memory will live on in the stories, songs, and love he shared with those around him. Friends and family are welcomed to attend Woody’s wake on Friday, August 16, 2024, at 9:00am followed by his homegoing service at 11:00am at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 86 Schuyler Street, Albany, NY 12202, Rev. Jahmel K. Robinson, Pastor; immediately following a procession to Graceland Cemetery for an entombment committal, 680 Delaware Ave, Albany, NY.   The family would like to extend an invitation to all to attend a repast at Mt Zion Missionary Baptist Church.