Jean Matula (nee Kozik) of Collingswood, formerly of Franklin Park, NJ, passed peacefully on May 13, 2026, at the age of 87. Beloved wife of John Matula. Loving mother of Thomas S. Matula (Melinda) of Collingswood, NJ, and Linda Lorenz (Thomas) of Collingswood, NJ. Proud grandmother of Justin’e Lorenz, Kelson Lorenz, and Liam Matula. Loving aunt of Kim Rogers and Eric Matteson. Also survived by her sister-in-law, Olga Matteson, and brother-in-law, Ralph Matteson.

Born on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in New York City, Jean lived a full and vibrant life marked by faith, laughter, resilience, and unwavering love for others.

For 65 wonderful years, Jean shared a loving marriage with her devoted husband, John. The two were married at The Slovak Lutheran Church on 20th Street in New York City and began their life together in the Bronx along Mosholu Parkway, building a partnership rooted in faith, family, and enduring love. She carried the spirit and energy of New York with her wherever she went — vivacious, authentic, tenacious, and unapologetically herself.

Jean worked throughout her life as a dedicated secretary for several organizations, including Matthews, Woodbridge, and Shepard, a copyright and patent law firm, as well as the Boy Scouts of America, Brown Boveri, and the IRS in New York.

Above all else, Jean’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. Jean was the heart of her family — a caretaker, advisor, peacemaker, comedian, and, as her loved ones often joked, the family “doctor.” She expressed her love through delicious home-cooked meals, warm hospitality, and a listening ear. Family gatherings were filled with laughter thanks to her unforgettable “Jeanisms,” her delayed expletive responses after dropping something, and her incredible sense of humor that could brighten any room.

A woman of deep Christian faith, Jean faithfully followed the teachings of Jesus and the Bible throughout her life. She was a founding member of Christ the King Lutheran Church in Kendall Park, NJ, where she sang in the church choir. She enjoyed watching television and movies, reading, needlepoint, gardening, cooking, and keeping in touch with family and friends through email. She especially loved her beloved cat, Jason, and fondly remembered the day she adopted Smokey, another cherished pet.

Jean’s legacy is one of love, kindness, humor, faith, and resilience. She taught those around her the importance of patience, compassion, and treating others with dignity and care. If there is one thing her family hopes people remember about Jean, it is that she was a fun person to be with and a truly loving soul.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Monday, May 18th, 2026, from 10 – 11 AM at Jackson Funeral Home, 308 Haddon Avenue, Haddon Township, NJ, with her funeral service following at 11 AM. Interment Ten Mile Run Cemetery, Franklin Twp., NJ. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jean’s memory may be made to Voorhees Animal Orphanage, 419 Cooper Road, Voorhees, NJ 08043. Arrangements by Jackson Funeral Home, Haddon Township, NJ www.jacksonfh.net