LANDRUM -- Rachael Kilbourne Gould, 91, of Landrum, SC, died peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, Monday, August 7, 2023, at Spartanburg Medical Center.  

Born December 4, 1931, in Columbus, OH, Rachael was the daughter of Raymond Warren and Mary Jane Williard Kilbourne. 

Rachael graduated from Connecticut College, Class of 1952. She married George M. L. Gould of Pittsburgh, PA the same year and they started their lives together in Sewickley, PA. They raised 6 children and resided there for 42 years. Rachael and George were known for their warmth and joie de vivre which attracted many to their home. They were married for 61 years, retiring to Landrum, SC in 1994. Rachael was predeceased by George in 2013. 

Rachael will be especially remembered for her spirited wit and lively sense of humor.  She cherished her many enduring friendships and shared her lifelong passion for reading and books with all. She served as a dedicated volunteer on the book selection committee at the Lanier Library in Tryon, NC for over twenty years. A mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, "Gigi" was a consummate nurturer with boundless love and generosity for her large, extended family. 

Rachael is survived by her six children, Andrew M. L. Gould of Landrum, SC; Karen G. Boyle (Tim) of Fountain Inn, SC; Isabel G. Hoversten (Peter) of Denver, CO; Megan G. Benedict (Roger) of Silverton, OR; George M. L. Gould Jr. (Carolyn) of Concord, MA and Leila G. Oliver (Charles) of Landrum, SC; as well as her three siblings, Karen K. Mearns of Bloomfield, NJ; Michael W. Kilbourne (Nancy) of Columbus, OH and Malinda K. Boyd (Richard) of Hilton Head Island, SC. Also surviving are 12 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Memorial gifts may be made to the Lanier Library, 72 Chestnut St, Tryon, NC 28782.