The former Springs resident and Springs Boys’ High School principal died in Durban on April 20, at the age of 81.
Gouldie was himself a student at the school from 1947 until 1951, and was also head prefect.
The following year, he joined the school’s rugby team on a tour to England.
After studying for his B.Sc. degree at Wits University, Gouldie was appointed to the staff of Boys’ High in 1956.
Although he left the school for a short period, Gouldie returned as principal in 1982, and was the first former student to fill this post.
He was a thoroughly proficient maths teacher, and his knowledge and coaching on the sports field was exceptional.
Gouldie was a stern disciplinarian, inflexible in his views and not easily swayed.
He was known to say, “There are three ways of doing something – the right way, the wrong way, and my way.”
Gouldie was a towering figure at the school and in the community, perhaps feared by many, but certainly respected by all he worked with.
He was a man of integrity, and of tremendous vital energy, whose influence was immensely beneficial to the school.
Gouldie retired in 1993 after 11 years at the helm, and moved to Durban.
He is survived by his wife Wendy, daughter Lesley, and sons Brian and David.
