Sad News for Purnell School
Dear Members of the Purnell Community,
On behalf of the Board of Trustees, I am very sorry to pass along the sad news that Purnell's founder, Lyttleton Bowen Purnell Gould, Jr., passed away peacefully on December 30th in Essex, Connecticut.
Our most heartfelt sympathies are with his children and his extensive family in this time of sadness. While I know this message will reach friends, colleagues and admirers of Mr. Gould all around the world, may the bonds of our community provide support for one another and bring peace to his family and friends.
Mr. Gould was beloved by his Purnell alumnae, friends, and families. He had a profound impact on so many people's lives through his vision for and devotion to each student and will be missed without measure. I know we will all take time to reflect on how important he was to each of us.
With deepest sympathy,
Ayanna Hill-Gill
Head of School
Memorial Service
The family has invited all members of the Purnell family to join with them in mourning his passing and celebrating his life's accomplishments at a Memorial Service on April 24th at 1pm at High Hopes Therapeutic Riding Center, 36 Town Woods Road in Old Lyme, Connecticut.
Purnell School will also welcome all Purnell family and friends to join us on the Purnell campus on May 14th at 2 pm for a service in remembrance of Mr. Gould as teacher, mentor, friend. Additional information on both services is forthcoming.
In addition, we offer here an opportunity to share warm memories of and tributes to Mr. Gould that we may all join in his gentle spirit. I hope you might find solace in each others' words.
Thank You Video from Purnell Students to Mr. Gould ( 2008 )
Watch Thanks, Mr. Gould( 2008 ).
Lyttleton Bowen Purnell Gould, Jr.
Click here to add your thoughts below.
25 Posts Submitted: From:
Anne Dillon Gallagher (1972)I had the privilege to know Mr. Gould at both FHCDS and Purnell. True to his naval background, he steered a straight course and possessed strong integrity. His humble, honest admissions to mistakes publicly at morning meetings was absolutely astonishing to me. Not something adults readily did in that generation. What a model for us struggling teenagers! One admonishment by this usually gentle giant was sufficient to curb any stray behavior. A true leader, he enabled leadership in us all. To allow students participation in curricular programs was progressive and hugely successful. My heartfelt condolences to all immediate family members. I am truly sorry I will be unable to attend one of the memorial services. I (and I am sure many others) will be there in spirit.
Posted: 2010-01-31 at 08:26:03
From:
Kim Howell Marsing (one of the first students to attend Purn)
Mr. Gould, so much has been said about him below that I don't know what words to add. He warmed my heart, he was my friend, he touched my life, he dreamed a dream come true. Mr. and Mrs. Gould were my family and Purnell will always be a home to me, some place to feel safe, loved and at peace, My thoughts are with his family. You all shared a wonderful mother and father with so very many. And as I think at the end of one of the yearbooks states "Good friends never say good-bye, just so long."
Posted: 2010-01-27 at 14:48:14
From:
Sage Ives Scott (class of 1975)
I am deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Mr. Gould. I feel especially blessed to have been in the last class that had Mr Gould as a headmaster! The Goulds were very special to me (my parents were teachers and I was the first faculty brat to be a student) and I treasure ALL my memories of them and Purnell. I feel they were ahead of their time creating an environment that encouraged creativity while still learning the basic fundamentals (which was just what I needed at the time). I am so very grateful to have had the "Purnell experience" and hold all my memories dear to my heart.
Posted: 2010-01-18 at 13:46:36
From:
Cynthia Drayton (Class of 1970)
Mr. Gould was an inspired leader. He established high goals and standards at Purnell and his students strove to follow them. While attending Purnell, students called him Mr. Gould; which we continued to do after graduation. I know why I and others probably continued to call him Mr. Gould: His persona, intellect, and sincerity commanded and inspired respect.
Posted: 2010-01-14 at 17:36:20
From:
Mary R. Clarke (Teacher and Fox Day Blabbermouth)
However can I forget my four years at Purnell! Living in Gould House next to the kitchen, I greeted Lytt and Sis every morning. They never had an unkind remark to utter about anyone, and bought out the best in all they know and loved. I'll never forget when I first arrived on campus racing out the driveway in my carnary yellow hutch-back Mustang and being subsequently laced out-- in a very kind demeanor by Lytt--for my hot-dogging it on his campus. Remember, I was a teacher! From that day forward I drove at a granny speed upon entering and leaving "Camelot."
Why Mary, the blabbermouth? Well, the students could always get me to reveal the date of the annual surprise "Fox" celebration. So on one occasion I was sequestered in Hap and Jeannie's attic, but now for very long!
Ah, those were the days!
Mary R. Clarke
President, Reading Resources, Inc.
San Francisco, CA
Posted: 2010-01-13 at 18:01:14
From:
Susan Klingenstein (class of 1973)
Lytt was a father to me, although I didn't realize it at the time. His passing affected me in the same way a family member's would. It was his vision, along with Sis, that made me the person I am today. Their belief that all girls strive in different ways to achieve what is personal to them shows in every girl that went to Purnell. His kind smiles at all times of day helped me realize that love is everywhere. My heart and support at this difficult time goes out to all immediate family, Purnellies, faculty and friends.
A father to us all.
Posted: 2010-01-11 at 15:44:00
From:
TINA OLNEY (CLASS OF 1980)
Words cannot describe how much Lytt and Sis meant to me. Since the first day when I arrived on campus with my mom, while my sister Pammie was a student, I knew that this was the right place for me. I spent the next eight years, awaiting my chance to live their vision and become a part of the Purnell family. Lytt and Sis were second parents to me even though they had already retired and I spent my first Project Period as a guest in their home, learning about Special Education and riding for the handicapped. Both the High Hopes and Purnell families are the beneficiaries of their vision and the world is a better place because they dared to provide young women with the right education that was so badly needed.
Thank you Lytt and Sis for helping me become the person that I am today. Love, T.O.
Posted: 2010-01-10 at 04:57:00
From:
Jenifer Hyde Armand-Delille (neighbor and friend)
Though I live in Normandy, France now, the news of Lytt Gould's passing reached me fast and has left a lingering sense of loss. He was headmaster at FHCDS while I was there, and later, my mother, Condict Hyde, taught pottery at Purnell. Our families were friends.
Mr. Gould was no cream puff as a role model, none of that touchy-feely stuff so common today. He led by example and held our feet to the fire (figuratively) and taught us that morals are essential and truth is absolute. He had a quick grin and a ready laugh too.
Even as a kid I respected him greatly. As an adult, I came to realize just how fine his example was. I went on to be a teacher, perhaps in part because of Lytt Gould. Yes, you will be sorely missed, and I look forward to seeing you again in heaven, Lytt.
Posted: 2010-01-09 at 09:48:23
From:
Cyndie Gould (Lytt and Sis Gould's youngest daughter)
The other day someone mentioned that I am now an orphan. But I responded by saying how could I possibly consider myself an orphan with parents like mine. They are still with me and always will be. How lucky our entire family has been to be living and breathing with my parents. However, I hope that you all realize how important my parents' extended family was to them. They both loved so truly, supported so wisely and inspired so passionately. But they received SO much in return from those with whom they came in contact. Please know that they appreciated so deeply the love and support that they felt from all of you. Purnell was an idea that my parents had, but it could only come to fruition and continue in the manner in which it is today as a result of those who worked with them and who have come after them. That has always been their plan. To lead from behind. To inspire, encourage and then step back. How wonderful that they had all of you in their lives!
Posted: 2010-01-07 at 11:15:00
From:
Ellen Halevan Stone (1982)
I will miss you. Thank you for the chance to attend Purnell. You are blessed forever.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 23:02:00
From:
Rebecca Cole-Turner (Teacher, Dorm Parent 1971-1974)
At dinner this evening here at the Grunewald Guild (a non-denominational Christian art guild located in the Cascade Mountains of Washington state), I shared with my new friends how the learning in the visual arts that I am enjoying these three weeks reminded me of Purnell and of Lytt and Sis' vision for the school. Lytt was a true visionary with regard to the education of young women, a man who was an innovative and creative thinker. Lytt had such a wonderful way of encouraging his faculty members to help implement new ideas and ways of learning for our students. He was one of my first and best mentors and what I learned from watching his life and how he lived it has been a tremendous influence on mine in so many ways. He lived his faith and taught me how to love better. Purnell and the world has lost a truly unique friend and leader, but Lytt's legacy is forever alive at Purnell. I will always remember his wonderful smile and laugh and the way he loved dear Sis so well.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 22:28:00
From:
Lisa Jo Hurbaugh (Student - graduated in 1982)
Without the vision of Mr. Gould and the ability to see his idea through - I would have been lost. The person that I am today is a direct result of my Purnell experience. I live the Purnell philosophy and I teach it. Mr. Gould was a fine man - a gentleman.....his unique views on education were groundbreaking. He is a hero to us all. The world is a better place because he was in it. May we all carry the torch for him now.....my love and sympathy to his family.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 19:49:00
From:
Diane (White) Fish (Former Faculty)
I am forever grateful to Mr. and Mrs. Gould for their vision and commitment to Purnell School. What they created and believed in had a tremendous impact on my life. How wonderful to know that they will both live on in the successes of everyone - students, teachers, staff, Trustees - who has the benefit of being part of Purnell School.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 17:26:00
From:
Katie Winn Boyer (Faculty and Staff 1997-present)
Lyttleton and Sis Gould were academic visionaries. Long before it was fashionable, Lytt and Sis knew that students learned in a variety of styles and did their best when they could pursue their strengths and passions. The Goulds created Purnell to be a magical place for young women, and indeed it has been. The world will miss Lytt's warmth, his sense of humor, and his belief in nurturing adolescents. As we remember him, I think of the School's timeless guidelines: Consideration of Others, Use of Common Sense, Truthfulness in All Relations. Thank you to the Goulds for all they have done for generations of young women.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 10:12:25
From:
Sarah Torrey (Class 1970)
There are not enough words to describe this incredible human being. I was extremely blessed to have attended Purnell - his dream come true. I gained from his wisdom, generosity, leadership and friendship. He and Sis helped me to become the person I am today. One of my favorite pastimes was sitting in the Gould’s kitchen after helping in Sis’s garden or while driving down RT 95 from Rhode Island calling and asking if the kettle was on. He and Sis will be sorely missed, but never forgotten.
Posted: 2010-01-06 at 08:13:17
From:
Paige Dotson Peabody (Class of 1986)
I am saddened by the news of Mr. Gould's passing but am comforted knowing that he will again be with his beautiful bride. How fortunate we are to have known him. The wisdom, knowledge and opportunities he brought to us will never be forgotten.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 22:54:03
From:
Lowrie Ebbert Reiter "L.C." (Class 1970 )
Mr Gould vision provide me with opportunities to grow and flourish in life, even with my learning difficulties. I am truly grateful to him and so many at Purnell. I will miss him greatly yet happy to know, he is finally with the Lady he loved so dearly. Thank you Mr Gould.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 21:21:31
From:
Bryant K. Alford (Former Trustee)
My affiliation with Purnell was encouraged by Louis Starr and Elizabeth Bugliari. As a local banker at Peapack-Gladstone Bank, there were many crossovers between Purnell and the people of the Somerset Hills and I learned about Lytt and Sis Gould due to my professional and personal association with so many of the old guard in the local Purnell Family. To my surprise and good fortune, at my first board meeting, I was seated next to Lytt (Life Trustee & Founder) and immediately, I understood Purnell's mission. It lives on because of the Goulds. In recent years I was lucky enough to have visited with Lytt at Essex Meadows many times as my wife (Susie's) parents are also residents there. What a great loss for all of us who love Purnell.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 20:39:59
From:
Christine Lee (Class of 2010)
I am very saddened by the passing of Mr. Gould. Although I never had the chance to meet him in person, I feel his influence as a current student at Purnell. Had it not been for Mr. Gould, I would not have been given all the amazing oportunities that Purnell has given me and would not be half the success that I am right now. I am exceptionally grateful to all the founders of Purnell for giving me the foundation for the rest of my life.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 20:34:23
From:
Bonner (1991)
I am sadden to hear the news. I always enjoyed seeing him on campus. His heart and vision has made a huge difference with many women who have gone to Purnell!!! We must keep the vision alive! Thanks Mr Gould!
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 20:13:21
From:
sally (Howard) Wichert (class of '69)
This is a great loss not only for Purnell but the educational world at large. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 17:59:44
From:
David Chamberlain (faculty member (1970 - 1975))
Wow.. what a loss, personally and to the world at large. Lytt was a giant in my life, and a profound inspiration for all of us who knew and worked with him. While the school is very much his legacy, it also represents his extraordinary life devoted to wonderful values in an age that embraces them. Lytt was one of the finest people I have ever known, on so many remarkable levels, and I treasure our long and warm association together. He was a great example of what it is to be human, and a contributor. We are all grateful beneficiaries of his presence on this earth, and I will miss him. The griffin mourns.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 17:09:39
From:
Dru Torian (1997 graduate)
I will be forever grateful to Mr Gould for his vision that became a reality. Because of Mr. Gould and Purnell, I've become the person I am today, and my words will never be enough, and how lucky I am to have known him, and to have spoken with him. It's because of him and Purnell, that I was able to be the student people saw in me and what I could/can become. Thank you Mr Gould for an amazing place, your devotion and time to such a great place I still can still call home.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 17:09:14
From:
Caryl Firth (Class of 1969)
I am truly saddened to learn of Mr. Gould's passing, but now he can be with Mrs. Gould again. They both were incredible individuals giving all of us such love and support. Mr. Gould will be missed, but always remembered.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 16:58:20
From:
Donna Martin (Alumnae Director)
I feel an enormous loss for all of us associated with Purnell. Mr. Gould was an important part of my life since 1966. I will always remember him for his devotion and commitment to his Purnell Family.
Posted: 2010-01-05 at 15:40:33
