Mary Ruth Williams

Mary Ruth Williams, 71, of Lock Haven, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Gatehouse in Williamsport. Mary was born on July 27, 1954, at the Williamsport Hospital to the late Robert L. and Janice R. Goetz of Renovo, PA.

Mary was a graduate of Bucktail High School, class of 1972, and received her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Education from Shippensburg State College in 1976. She attained her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the Pennsylvania State University in 1984. Mary was united in marriage to Scott L Williams on June 25, 1977 in Renovo Pa and they celebrated 48 years of marriage Mary taught business education at both Bucktail High School and Central Mountain Middle School for 29 ½ years. Affectionately called “Miss Mary” by her students her innovative and effective teaching style inspired generations of students to excel in their future endeavors.

Mary loved spending time outdoors gardening, landscaping, and bird watching. She was an incredible seamstress and gifted quilter. She was a meticulous house keeper and took great pride in making her home warm and welcoming especially for the holidays. Mary was a lifelong devout Catholic and, while in good health, she was an active member of the Holy Spirit Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, Lock Haven.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved cat, Joey. Mary is survived by her husband, Scott L Williams, and daughters, Dr. Amy E Williams and Emily A Williams. Mary is also survived by siblings Nancy (Norman) Fike, Gerald (Sandra) Goetz, and Janice (Jamie) Kelley and numerous nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at the Helt Funeral Chapel, 232 Hogan Blvd., Mill Hall with Rev. Joseph Orr officiating. Friends and relatives will be received one hour prior to the service at the funeral chapel.

Online condolences can be sent at MaxwellHelt.com.