KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Gary Lee Gould, 70, of Knoxville, Tenn., went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, March 7, after a battle with Alzheimer’s. He was a member of Heritage Fellowship Church.

Gary was born and raised in Auburn, where he excelled in basketball and cross country in high school. After graduation he enlisted in the Air Force, serving his country during the Vietnam War. Prior to his retirement he was a successful manager/salesman for National Federation of Independence Business.

Gary was friendly, outgoing, loving and the life of the party. He knew no strangers. He was involved for many years with Evangelism Explosion and Jackson Square Ministries. He provided spiritual guidance, food and toiletries to those in need. He also worked in prison ministries and had a heart for the homeless and needy.

His joy was his family and making time to attend his children’s sporting events and dance recitals. This carried over to his grandkids as well. He was the proud “Pops” to five wonderful grandchildren. He loved playing miniature golf, riding roller coasters, basketball and checkers with them. A favorite game was a version of hide-and-seek that the children lovingly called “Hairy Man.”

He is survived by Sheila, his loving wife of 49 years; son, Todd, and wife, Ashley Minner Gould; daughter, Krista Gould Sagraves, and husband, Dave Sagraves; grandchildren, Andy Sagraves, Preston Gould, Alex Sagraves, Ailynn Sagraves and Piper Gould.

He was preceded in death by his father, Merlton, and mother, Marjorie Gould.

Gary Lee Gould