KNOX COUNTY, Tenn. — Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Grant Gouldie is being remembered as a gentle giant whose heart was as big as his presence.
The 6'8" officer, known for his unwavering commitment to service and his kind demeanor, passed away on Nov. 16, 2024, after a year-long battle with cancer.
"He was very exceptional… a big old teddy bear, really," THP Captain Stacey Heatherley, who worked closely with Gouldie, said. "Grant was the kind of man you couldn't help but be drawn to. He was always gracious, especially with children."
Gouldie joined THP in 2016, fulfilling a lifelong dream to serve and protect his community. He worked as a motor officer, field training officer and recruitment trooper—earning respect for his professionalism, integrity and the pride he took in his role.
"When you're a recruiting trooper, that means you look good, you're presentable, you're a good role model," Heatherley said. "And he did that every single day."
But it wasn’t just his work ethic that made him stand out.
Gouldie was also known for his showmanship. Heatherley recalled a memorable moment during a Gatlinburg parade when Gouldie dropped his motorcycle in front of the crowd. Instead of being embarrassed, he got up, presented himself, bowed and stole the show.
His family, however, was his proudest accomplishment. Gouldie leaves behind his wife, Amanda, and three children—Maelynn, Jaxon and Ava. Heatherley, who grew close to the Gouldie family, shared the promise of ongoing support for them.
"I just want to make sure that he knows who his daddy is," Heatherley said, referring to Gouldie’s young son, Jaxon. "Maelynn will remember him, but Jaxon… we’ll make sure he knows who his daddy was."
While Gouldie’s passing has left a deep void in his family and the THP community, his fellow troopers are committed to honoring his legacy.
"We’ve told Amanda, you're not going to do this alone," Heatherley added. "When those kiddos have graduations, ball games, special things—we are going to be there."
On Friday, Nov. 22nd, Grant will be laid to rest in a procession escorted by fellow motor officers from across the nation.