Obituary of Barbara L. Gould

Barbara Gould passed away at 49 years old in the Florham Park home that embraced her throughout her life. Recognized by her neighbors as she walked Harley, her steadfast companion, or geared up for a day out on her motorcycle, Barbara was known for quiet, competent, and caring manners. Spending time with Barbara revealed her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor and allowed you to discover that the beauty of her spirit revealed in the warmth of smile.

A graduate of Seton Hall University with a degree in Communications, Barbara applied her talents to a career at her alma mater. A proud member of Sigma Sigma Sigma sorority, Barbara shared that she learned her photo stance from her sisters known affectionately by all as the “Barbara Pose.” For 25 years, she contributed to the learning experience of college students by working with faculty to bring technology into the classroom and served as a resource to frazzled and nervous students facing technology challenges. While the world retreated during Covid, Barbara was part of an integral team at Seton Hall transitioning academics.

Barbara was a take care of it yourself independent woman knowledgeable about automobiles – especially Mustangs leading to her self-proclaimed nickname of “Mustang Girl” and home repair completing DIY projects from plumbing to flooring to yard work. Barbara would study the internet then make things happen. Her talent was not limited to construction repairs. Barbara’s walls are filled with her “paint and sip” creations, crafts and projects. The “sip” a pastime shared by Barbara and her mom on weekend jaunts across the state discovering wineries and enjoying live music.

Motorcycling was a passion Barbara loved to share. She took every opportunity to enjoy the road – twists, turns and underpasses - and the people along for the ride with her. The adventurous spirit Barbara carefully held in check was evident each time she rode. Her Harley Davidson adventure bike took her to new places and Barbara demonstrated that she could hold her own. Always ready to “play motorcycles,” she helped others gain confidence by practicing with cones. She provided leadership to the motorcycle community as the Garden State HOG Head Road Captain, Rescue Rider Safety Officer, and Iron Valkyries Road Captain.

Her love of photography was evident in the images she shared via Facebook capturing moments on the road, enjoying other riders especially at Garden State where she spent time as the official Photographer, Harley at play, and the beauty of the world surrounding her. Everyone knew that a photograph with Barbara always required an extra moment to allow for the selfie. Barbara including her bright smile in the moment and images she captured.

She is survived by her beloved mother and dear friend, Barbara Liddell Gould, and the countless friends who called her family.

Visiting hours for Barbara are on Saturday, November 9, 2024 from 1-4pm, with a Celebration of Life at 3pm, at Burroughs, Kohr & Dangler Funeral Home, 106 Main Street, Madison. (During Visiting Hours, a steady flow throughout the Funeral Home will ensure all guests will be able to share their condolences with the family.) Interment will be private and at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a tribute donation to St. Hubert's Animal Welfare Center, 575 Woodland Ave., Madison, NJ  07940 (www.sthuberts.org/donate).