Jean Natlee Treadwell was born on November 8, 1927, in Baltimore City, Maryland to Lambert M. Smelser and Ruth A. Smelser nee Marquette. She graduated from Forest Park High School in 1946. A quotation from her high school yearbook reads, "She's all sunshine."

In 1948, she received a diploma from Bard-Avon Secretarial School. She went on to work as a secretary in a doctor's office. She married twice and owned three dogs who brought her great joy. She was an avid reader. She enjoyed staying up-to-date on current events and loved a good Raven's game.

She is predeceased by two husbands Robert L. Davidson and Alvin A. Treadwell, as well as her parents and a brother, Dr. Rennert M. Smelser. She leaves behind family and friends who will miss her dearly.