Martha "Jean" Gollatz

Jean was born in Wilkes Barre, PA. to parents, Frederick Williams and Martha Williams (nee Merdich). She skipped her last year of Atlantic City High School to enter Brown University in 1962. She graduated from Brown in 1966 with a major in in Classics and a minor in Mathematics. Jean built a successful career that began as a computer programmer, later advancing to systems analyst, then supervisor of Data Processing for the Pennsylvania State Court System and eventually serving as a consultant for the Middle Township School System in Cape May County, New Jersey. Her professional life ended in 1986 due to a brain injury suffered during an automobile accident.

Prior to her accident Jean included reading, writing, sewing, knitting, and travelling amongst her favorite activities.

Jean was an intelligent, strong, independent, and energetic woman, known for her warmth and keen insight into human behavior. Her ability to understand others fostered a deep sense of acceptance and respect for nearly everyone she encountered. She spoke with honesty and clarity—always direct, yet never harsh or provoking. Jean's determination was unwavering: she was resolved to heal, to return home, to support her husband, and to never let her circumstances define her. Her well-known laugh and radiant smile were lasting proof that she met those goals with grace and spirit.

Jean was preceded in death by her father and mother.

Jean is survived by her husband, Frank.

In Lieu of Flowers, donations in Jean’s name may be made to Beechwood NeuroRehab, 469 E. Maple Avenue. Langhorne, PA 10947.