Mary Louise Folts

Born on July 3, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan, Mary Lou grew up with a passion for learning and education. She earned a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, Curriculum, and Instruction from the University of Pennsylvania in 1993, following a Master’s degree in Russian Language and Literature from the University of Notre Dame in 1971 and a Bachelor’s degree in the same field from St. Mary’s College in 1969.

Mary Lou's dedication to education was evident throughout her professional life. She began her career as a high school English teacher, teaching in Maine, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania from 1971 to 1990. She later served as an assistant principal, Language Arts and Foreign Language Supervisor, and Curriculum Director in the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, where her leadership left a lasting impact. Additionally, she shared her love of language and literature as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Maine at Presque Isle from 1975 to 1983.

After retiring to St. Simons Island, Mary Lou became deeply involved in her community. She served as a board member for the Newcomers Club and Coasters, focusing on membership. Her passion for literature led her to join the Literary Guild of St. Simons Island as a board member overseeing communications. She was a dedicated tutor and mentor for Glynn County Schools students and a proud supporter of numerous local organizations, including the Glynn Visual Arts, Coastal Georgia Historical Society, and Golden Isles Arts and Humanities.

Mary Lou was preceded in death by her father, Gerard Goyette; her brother, Gerard Jr. (Jay) Goyette; and her beloved husband of 50 years, David Folts. She is survived by her mother, Elizabeth Goyette; her siblings, Nancy Barrett, Diane Goyette-McNellis, and Brian Goyette; her son, Christopher Folts; and her grandson, William Folts, who was the light of her life. In recent years, Mary Lou found great joy and companionship with her dear friend, Rick Sommerville, whose presence brightened her days.

Mary Lou’s life was a testament to the power of education, community, and kindness. Her wisdom, compassion, and vibrant spirit enriched the lives of everyone she met—and she always had a pun-derful way of making people smile.

A celebration of her remarkable life will be held at St. Williams Church Fellowship Hall on St. Simons Island on Friday, January 24, 2025. Exact details can be found at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/brunswick-ga/mary-folts-12121656. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Habitat for Humanity, Golden Isles Youth Orchestra, or The Parkinson's Foundation, reflecting Mary Lou’s commitment to community.