Bill Dean Gould

Billy Dean Gould, lovingly known as “Bill,” passed away on October 11, 2025 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Born on July 22, 1932, in Hartman, Arkansas, to Connie Roosevelt Gould and Erma Jacobs Gould. Bill lived a life full of purpose, grit, and unwavering devotion to the things that mattered most: his family, his work, and his community.

After graduating high school in Stidham, Oklahoma, Bill attended the University of Oklahoma before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1955. A true patriot, he carried the values of discipline and honor into every corner of his life.

Bill married the love of his life, Dottie Simonsen, on January 21, 1954. Together, they built not just a home, but a legacy rooted in love, hard work, and family. He is survived by their two children, Vicki Smith and her husband Lanny, and Steve Gould and his wife Melinda, all of Norman. He was a proud grandfather to Phil Gould, Logan Gould (Carleigh), and Alecia Nelson (David), and a great-grandfather to Parker and Brooks Nelson. He is preceded in death by his beloved infant granddaughter, Jennifer.

Bill was a master builder and contractor whose work shaped the skyline of Norman. His craftsmanship can be found in countless homes and commercial buildings throughout the city. A man of vision and action, Bill was a founding member of the Norman Round-Up Club, an active member of the Lions Club, FFA, the Norman Home Builders Association, and served as a Scout Master, where he mentored countless young lives.

A true cowboy at heart, Bill’s perfect day would begin with a morning hunt, followed by riding horses, and ending with a steak dinner surrounded by his family. He found joy in the laughter of his kids and grandkids, and his favorite soundtrack was the twang of country music, especially with a backdrop of his favorite color blue.

Those who knew Bill learned from his unwavering work ethic and the deep love he had for his family. He loved the land, his animals, and his work—whether wrangling cattle, caring for his dogs, or mentoring young builders. He wanted to be remembered simply as a hardworking man who loved his family—and he will be.

Bill is also survived by his siblings Harold Gould (Barbara) of Dover, OH; Wayne Gould (Kathy) of Miami, OK; and Pat Reed of Oklahoma City, along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother Kenneth, as well as several other loved ones who greeted him in heaven.

A special thanks goes to the compassionate nurses at Norman Regional Hospital for their care and kindness.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Meals On Wheels of Norman, an organization close to the family’s heart.

A visitation will be held at Primrose Funeral Service, located at 1109 North Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071, on October 15, 2025, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. The funeral service will take place at the same venue on October 16, 2025, starting at 2:00 pm. Bill’s final resting place will be Sunset Memorial Park, located at 2301 E Indian Hills Rd., Norman.

Bill Gould built more than buildings, he built a legacy. His was a life well lived, and he will be deeply missed.