John Gossett, remembered as a man who made sacrifices for his students and who possessed a great sense of public service, died Sunday after a long illness.

John Gossett

Gossett joined the faculty in the Department of Communication Studies at the University of North Texas in 1981. Among his work at the university, he served as director of debate from 1981 through 1991 and taught courses in rhetoric and public address and advised undergraduate and graduate students. Gossett served as chairman of the department from 1989 to 2006.

Brian Lain, UNT’s director of debate and an assistant professor, knew Gossett mainly through the debate setting.

“He was an incredible coach who turned the North Texas program around and made it something competitive nationally,” Lain said. “[Gossett] was someone students could trust and who would always make sacrifices to help students out.”

Lain has received letters from alumni praising Gossett’s dedication.

“He was always a person who offered words of encouragement and helped people accomplish things,” Lain said. “He was the reason I took this job here at North Texas, to be able to work on the faculty with him.”

Gossett was elected as chairman of the Denton County Democratic Party in 2006 and resigned in March 2007 because of health reasons.

Neil Durrance, who followed Gossett as party chairman, said Gossett had a sparkling personality.

“That’s how I remember him. He came forward and gave our party service and dedication it needed at a very important time,” Durrance said.

Durrance said Gossett served in many capacities in Denton.

“He had a great sense of public service. He was a good Democrat but also a great citizen,” he said. “Denton is the poorer for him passing. We need more people like him to step up.”

A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church in Denton.

BJ LEWIS can be reached at 940-566-6875. His e-mail address is blewis@dentonrc.com .