University of North Texas 
In Memoriam: Georgia "Billie" Gough
With deep respect and heartfelt sorrow, we announce the passing of Georgia Belle “Billie”
Leach Gough, b. Dec. 20, 1920, who died in Denton, Texas, at the age of 103. She was
a cherished UNT alumna and Professor Emeritus of Art. For more than 78 years after
her graduation, Billie devoted her life to UNT and the College of Visual Arts and
Design — a place she lovingly referred to as her family.Born with an enduring passion for art and education, Billie earned her master’s degree
from UNT in 1946 and began a remarkable 25-year career as a professor of ceramics.
In 1947, under the mentorship of the formidable Cora Stafford, she became one of the
pioneering members of the art department at what was then North Texas State College.
Her dedication led her to inspire countless student artists and influence the art
community beyond the classroom. Billie’s creative spirit was evident in the founding
of the annual “Materials Hard + Soft” exhibition in 1987 and in her long-standing
service on the Greater Denton Arts Council board.
Billie’s legacy is inseparable from that of her late husband, Ray Gough (B.A. ’40,
M.S. ’41), a UNT alumnus and the founder of the Interior Design program at the College
of Visual Arts and Design. Together, the Goughs enriched UNT for over 35 years, leaving
an indelible mark through their leadership, generosity, and vision. Their contributions
include two scholarships bearing their name, a lecture series honoring Ray, and the
Ray and Georgia Gough Design Research Space housed in the state-of-the-art College
of Visual Arts and Design Art Building. In 2004, the Goughs were recognized with UNT’s
Green Glory Award for exceptional service to the university.
Billie’s commitment to UNT extended far beyond her teaching years. She was a lifelong
advocate for the university, often expressing, “UNT really helped us grow. We never
had any children, so UNT is our family,” and “I love the friendliness, quality of
education and the overall atmosphere. There’s nothing like being on campus.” Her generous
spirit is further evidenced by her donation of $150,000 to establish the Ray and Georgia
Gough Research Fund — a lasting investment in research across interiors, fibers, ceramics,
jewelry, metals, and related artistic disciplines.
A dedicated educator, an inspiring mentor, and a tireless supporter of the arts, Billie
began her journey with a bachelor’s degree from Central State College in Oklahoma
and early teaching stints in Oklahoma City and Denison, all while pursuing her master’s
at UNT. Her professional and personal journeys intertwined with UNT’s growth, and
she remained an active participant in the university community well into her retirement.
Georgia Belle “Billie” Leach Gough’s profound impact on UNT and the arts will continue
to resonate through the countless students, colleagues, and art lovers whose lives
she touched. Her legacy of dedication, creativity, and generosity endures in the vibrant
art programs, scholarships, research funds, and cherished memories at the University
of North Texas.
She is survived by the lasting influence of her work and the community she so dearly
loved, ensuring that her spirit will forever remain a part of UNT’s enduring story.