Maureen Smith Mallory

Maureen Smith Ponder Mallory, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, after a brief illness. When she was first taken to the hospital, after gathering with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other family for a fabulous Christmas Celebration, the family was told they would not have her much longer. Due to the outstanding efforts of her son Bob, daughter Leesa, and daughter-in-law Sarah, Operation "Mom's Last Party" was launched (it lasted an entire month!). Every day Mom was visited by Family, Relatives and Friends not to mention the cards, flowers, phone calls, texts and emails. There were probably smoke signals sent as well, sorry if we missed them.

Consulting with family here are some random musings:

Maureen has many aliases: Mammy aka Hurricane Mammy aka the Trinket Buyer aka Hoppy Malou (don't ask).

She was passionate about many things Bridge, Books, Coffee, Baseball & Football. Shopping was way up there too (Trinket Buyer).

She enthusiastically supported every activity the kids & grandkids did from sports to art, dancing to musical performances, dog shows, horse shows you name it, she was there. She always said her favorite person/activity was the last thing she just did. Always excited and happy to be there enjoying her family and whatever they were up to.

A bad day at the Bridge Table is still better than just about anything. As good as she was at Bridge she was humble about her abilities. She was always in demand and played until her

final days.

Maureen was famous for the best Homemade Sandwiches, ever, Fried Shrimp & making darn sure those without a place to go on Holidays were always welcome to her Holiday Celebrations.

Maureen was preceded in death by Husbands, Robert D. Ponder, Sr. and Zach Mallory. She is survived by her children, Jenni Estep, Leesa Yensen (spouse Marc), Sandy Ponder-Chalker (former spouse

"Sweet Al"), Robert Ponder, Jr (spouse Sarah); Grandchildren, Justin Estep (Michelle), Jacy Selcoe (Jarrod), Joshua Wendt, Nathan Wendt

(Jen), Grace Chalker (Scott); Great-grandchildren, James, Jude, Raven, Leroy & Mabel; Step Children, Linda Newcomer (Rob) & Melissa Bonnet;

Her Uncle Reverend Kelly D Williams, Numerous Nieces & Nephews and every single person that ever shared a Bridge Table with her.

Party for Remembrance will be Sunday March 1, 2026 from 1pm to 4pm at the home of Robert Ponder, Jr 15470 Carmel Dr Willis, Texas 77318. Please come by to share stories, swap a few lies and celebrate the exceptional person that was the Maureen we will always know and love.

In lieu of flowers please donate to a cause of your choice.