In Loving Memory of

Jesus Ponce92 years young

and

Rachel Fuentes Ponce87 years young

Together in Life, Together in Love

Jesus and Rachel Ponce were born and raised in Three Rivers, and George West, Texas. They met as young people while picking cotton in another state. When Jesus came back from the war after being drafted, he asked Rachel to marry him, beginning a love story that would span 68 years.

The couple settled in San Antonio, where Jesus worked and eventually retired from Kelly Air Force Base. Together they built a life centered on God, family, hard work, and love.

Jesus was first and foremost a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His children and grandchildren have countless memories of his hugs, kisses, and affection.

To his children, Dad was the smartest person they ever knew. Whether he was fixing something around the house or working on aircraft at Kelly Air Force Base, he seemed to know how everything worked. He became the first Aircraft Mechanic Journeyman at Kelly and later studied to become an instructor for aircraft electrical systems. He shared that knowledge freely and taught his children how to live with honor, even when no one is looking.

Rachel was the heart of the family. If she loved you, you knew it. There was nothing she would not do for her children. Through sacrifice, creativity, and determination, she made sure they never lacked for anything and always put their needs ahead of her own. She was grateful for her family, her home, and the life she and Jesus built together.

Though they are deeply missed, their family finds comfort in knowing they are finally reunited. It was difficult to imagine either of them truly happy apart from the other.

"United in life, united in memory, united forever in love."

Survived by:

Their children, Jesus Ponce; Eric Ponce (Lillian); Debra Ponce; and Narcy Martinez (Tom).

They were also blessed with 9 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward their legacy of faith, family, and love.