Chonita Yvette "Chonie" Pischinger

Chonie Yvette Pischinger, of Temple, TX, passed away on March 22, 2026 at the age of 82. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother and friend, she made a huge impact on all who knew her.

Born in Columbia, SC, to Gerald and LaFerne Hawkins, Chonie was bright, creative and resourceful from an early age. She was an avid reader, spending endless hours at the library, and she devoted most summers to working on her grandparents' farm in Illinois. Her father's military career brought her family to Scottsdale, AZ, where she graduated high school at the age of 17.

Chonie met her late husband, Dr. Russell (Russ) Pischinger, at Arizona State University, where she earned a double degree in Elementary Education and Art & Design. The two married in 1965 and enjoyed 53 years together before his passing in 2018. Chonie and Russ raised two children, Scott and Channin. Russ's career as a radiologist brought the family of four from Colorado to Temple in 1988, when they joined the Scott & White community.

Chonie strongly believed in the importance of serving and giving back to her community. The skills she honed as a mother, third grade teacher and owner of an interior design firm led her to a life of service working with organizations that blended her passion for children and creativity. Her dedication to the service of non-profits in the Temple area would span more than 35 years.

Chonie was instrumental in starting the Temple Children's Museum in 2017 and was active on the non-profit's board for more than six years. Her experience with the Denver Children's Museum while her family lived in Colorado led her to recognize the potential for a museum in Central Texas that would provide children with hands-on experiences that would foster curiosity, creativity and learning. Her contribution to the museum's legacy will continue as it approaches its 10th anniversary next year.

In 2019, Chonie was awarded the Mary Steele Lifetime Service Award by The Contemporaries of the Cultural Activities Center for her 30-plus years of service. During her time with the organization, she co-chaired multiple annual Galas and other fundraisers, including 'Diamonds, Denim and Dice' and 'Chrome and Cocktails.' She served on numerous committees during her time with The Contemporaries, volunteered with the Arts-in-Education and Hands-On programs and lent her organizational and decorative abilities to countless events. Chonie's involvement with The Contemporaries blessed her with a lifetime of friendships with women who would become like family. They worked together toward a common goal, always laughing and having fun while creating memories for the next generation.

Chonie was a proud member of the HC chapter of P.E.O., a philanthropic educational organization that supports women's education in the U.S. and Canada. During her decades-long membership, she enjoyed serving and building lasting relationships with her fellow sisters.

One of Chonie's proudest achievements was her role as "Nana." Her legacy will live on through her grandson and twin granddaughters from her son, Scott (Denise), her two granddaughters from her daughter, Channin (Gary), and her great-granddaughter. They will forever hold her in their hearts, alongside memories of baking, crafting, dancing, parties, play dates in the park, texts and phone calls.

The family will honor Chonie's wishes to memorialize her and celebrate her life in private.

Hewett-Arney Funeral Home of Temple is entrusted with these arrangements.