Jeannine P. Collins

Mary Jeannine Ponder Collins (94) went home to the Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on February 2, 2024 in her home Albuq., NM.

Mary Jeannine Ponder was born in Phoenix, AZ on October 8, 1929. Her parents were Helen & Jack Ponder, a pioneer family from El Paso, TX. Shortly after birth, the family returned to El Paso where she was raised. She attended St. Joseph elementary school, Austin High School, Texas College of Mines and Metallurgy. She graduated from UT El Paso and entered the field of teaching.

She is survived by her children Linda Wallace, Dan and Brenda Williams, Richard Williams, Stephen Williams, Ellen Williams (Reid), a stepdaughter Yvonne Harris (Jeff) and a God Son, Allen Foster (Robert). She has three grandchildren Rachel (Andrew), Alyssa (Nathan) and Eric (Brianna)and six greatgrandchildren Lyra, Orson, Ruth, Junia, Ryland and Rayleigh.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brothers John Gordon and Jim and sister Allison.

While attending college, she was a member of the Acapella Choir, the Gold Digger Marching Team and Chi Omega Sorority. Later, she was a member of the Christ Child Society, Eastwood Knolls Garden Club, Photographic Enthusiasts of El Paso, Photographic Society of Lincoln County and the Archeological Society of El Paso. She also volunteered at the VA Hospital.

She retired from the El Paso School system where she was nominated outstanding teacher at Whitter and Hughy Elementary Schools. She was known for her teaching skills, her belief in the kids and what they could become. In both Science and Art classes she was an educational wonder where kids wanted to learn and improve. She mentored many an upcoming teacher. She was known for her humility and her generosity by many. She also received numerous awards in photography both in El Paso and Ruidoso, New Mexico. During retirement, she traveled to England, Germany & Argentina to see her stepdaughter & continue her love of photography. She visited Spain, Italy, Mexico & her favorite, Greece. Always photographing each country with zeal. She encouraged her grandchildren to broaden their horizons with travel.

We would like to give our sincere thank you to the caregivers from Hospice, Jessica Sanchez and Bobbi Shendo. Thank you to the Hospice program for the dignity and attention provided to her. Her home health care giver, Debbie Garcia, was valuable in every aspect. She is most thankful to her children, especially John and Dan for making it possible for her to stay in her home.

A mass will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church on San Isidro on February 21, 2024 at 10:30. Her ashes will be buried at Mt. Calvary Cemetery on another date.

Charitable contributions are encouraged to a favorite charity.