Aletheia Joy Elizabeth Gould

Aletheia Joy Elizabeth Gould returned to the Lord on March 12, 2026. Born on February 24, 2013, she carried the name Joy through her thirteen years on earth, bringing genuine happiness to everyone who knew her.

Though cerebral palsy placed physical limitations on her body, Aletheia’s mind and spirit soared far beyond them. She embraced a positive outlook and remained grateful for every blessing. Against all expectations, she broke through the silence of being non-verbal by developing her own tactile form of Morse code, touching her mother’s hand with her nose and forehead to communicate. This opened a world of learning that she pursued with delight. She loved mathematics and science, studied eight languages alongside her mother, and offered her father thoughtful advice on the design of his computer servers. She found joy in listening to mystery books and often spoke of her dream of one day working aboard the International Space Station, perhaps taking her beloved Squishmallow collection with her.

Even more remarkable than her bright intelligence and playful spirit was the depth of her heart. Aletheia possessed a profound compassion for others and a steadfast love for God. Once she committed her life to Him, her faith never wavered.

She is survived by her loving parents, Brian and Mary Gould; her loyal companion, Larry the stuffed axolotl; maternal grandparents, Randal and Carol Givens; paternal grandparents, Richard Gould and Ruth Gould; aunts and uncles Anna Givens, Heather Gould, Brent and Stephanie Gould, and Matt and Kim Wagner; as well as many cousins, extended family members, and friends.