Jill A. Pontius

1937 - 2021

Jill A. Pontius (1937 - 2021) passed away in a Cape Coral, Florida nursing home on May 27, 2021 at the age of 84 after a long illness. Jill, daughter of the late James and Thelma Frank, was born in Gary, Indiana. Jill is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Earl Pontius; her sister Joan Thielbar; her three sons David Hall, Daniel Pontius (Amy), and John Pontius (Jennifer); her grandchildren Crystal (Matt), Michael, Grace, and Danny; and her great-grandchildren Phoebe and Lydia. She attended Indiana University where she met Earl Pontius. Jill later graduated from Upper Iowa University with a Bachelor's Degree. Early in Jills career, she received an official commendation from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Planning Division for the "Highest Quality" of her planning process and results. Additionally, she served as a writer and editor for Water Spectrum, which was the official magazine for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Jill maintained a strong interest in writing beginning with poetry during her early school years. She and Earl moved to Acton, Massachusetts in 1986 where they resided for 33 years, and Jill became a long-time writer for the Acton Beacon Newspaper reporting on a variety of topics including town government, local business news, and in-depth features on Acton citizens. One of her most popular columns, Natures Way, focused on local wildlife. She enjoyed conversing with local residents and participating in nature walks. One of her favorite places was the Acton Arboretum. In 1990 Jill was honored by the New England Press Association. She was awarded first place in the Business/Economic Reporting category. Jill was a faithful member of Acton's St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, where she served as a Lecter, Eucharist Minister, member of the Parish Council, and CCD teacher. In addition, Jill was a student in the Theology and Ministry Graduate Program at Boston College. She later attended St. Irenes Parish in Carlisle, MA. Jill possessed a welcoming smile and a giving heart. Throughout her life, Jill volunteered to help people wherever she could. She delivered Meals on Wheels, helped young families through the Air Force Officers Wives Club, and volunteered at hospitals and correctional facilities. She will be missed by many, including her long-term friend Maddie Kaduboski and her loving family. Jill was a truly remarkable person who cared about others. She gave generously of her time and resources and was too modest to mention what she did. She was friendly and kind with a positive disposition and beautiful smile. She enjoyed social functions and was comfortable in any situation. She enjoyed traveling with her family and friends and was truly fun to be around. Jills loss was deeply felt by those who knew and loved her; it is comforting that we will have wonderful memories to share. A mass was held on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at 4:00 P.M. live-streamed at The Catholic Collaborative of Concord-Carlisle, St. Irene's Parish. In memory of Jill's life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to St. Irene's Parish: St. Vincent de Paul Society.