Maria Elena Ponce's Obituary
Maria Elena Alfonso de Ponce (1964-2025)
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Ponce, beloved wife, devoted mother, cherished grandmother, and a beacon of light in her community. Maria peacefully departed on July 19, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering faith.
Born in Mendoza, Argentina, Maria's early life was marked by a passion for learning and a dedication to service. She pursued higher education with fervor, earning an Associate's degree in Family Studies from Aconcagua University and an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education from the Higher Institute of Teacher Training, both in Argentina. Her commitment to education culminated in a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Trinity International University in the United States.
Maria began her impactful career as a VPK teacher in Argentina and rose to the esteemed position of Center Director at Los Jazmines school, a role she embraced with immense pride and joy, deeply investing herself in the well-being of the entire school community.
Maria and her family later moved to the United States. Her early years in a new country presented significant challenges, including learning a new language and culture, experiences with discrimination, long hours, and underpayment in various jobs. She persevered, eventually became a preschool teacher for several years, and then served with distinction as a Guardian ad Litem for the 17th Judicial Circuit. Most recently, she dedicated her expertise as a Developmental Specialist for Early Steps Foundation, making a profound difference in the lives of many families.
Beyond her professional achievements, Maria embraced life with zest and an insatiable curiosity. Most recently, she found joy in gardening, the pursuit of knowledge, and the creative art of soap making. Her culinary skills were a source of delight for her family, and her love for traveling the world, particularly exploring the beauty of the Caribbean and Europe, enriched her life with countless memories.
However, Maria's greatest passion was her unwavering commitment to investing in others and spending quality time with her beloved family. She continually checked on her family in Argentina, showering them with thoughtful gifts and frequent visits, always longing to be with them. For her closest family, gatherings were paramount; she always looked forward to coming together, often preparing elaborate thematic meals that catered to diverse palates and dietary needs. She enjoyed going to the beach with her husband, Angel, and was his steadfast partner, helping him both at work and at home, and cherishing their travels together. Maria greatly valued the success of her children and grandchildren, ensuring they always had everything they needed. She imparted wisdom to her family members, always direct and honest, even when addressing delicate subjects, guiding them with love. Beyond practical support, she loved to play games, watch movies, and be an active part of family activities. Maria always took a vested interest in the life and trajectory of everyone in her family, from the smallest joys to the biggest milestones. She extended her boundless love to her in-laws, making sure they always felt deeply a part of the family.
A devout follower of Christ, Maria's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She found solace and strength in reading her Bible often, praying continually, and giving thanks for all of God's blessings, even amidst her numerous life struggles. These are a small selection among many verses, poems, and promises of God that she loved and treasured: Psalm 139, Psalm 103, John 14-16, Song of Solomon 3, 6, and 9, Daniel 9:3-22, and Jeremiah 33:3. To her family, Maria certainly lived out the characteristics of a wise woman described in Proverbs 31. Indeed, she displayed these qualities of Jesus through her care of her family and enduring service to her community.
Maria is survived by:
· Her loving husband, Angel Ponce.
· Her eldest son, Matias Ponce, and his wife, Tamika Ponce.
· Her youngest son, Marcos Ponce, and his wife, Jennifer Ponce.
· Grand-daughter, Lilah Ponce, whom Maria adored, child of Marcos and Jennifer.
· Loving step-grandchildren Kayla and Terron, children of Tamika.
· Treasured great-step-grandson, True, child of Kayla.
· Beloved sister, Estela Alfonso.
· Loving sister, Rosana Fidacaro, and her husband, Tony Fidacaro.
· Dear brother, Eduardo Alfonso, his wife, Adriana Alfonso, and their family.
· And many other loving cousins and extended family in Argentina.
Maria's warmth, kindness, and indomitable spirit will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of love, faith, and perseverance will continue to inspire us.
“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand— when I awake, I am still with you.”
Psalm 139:16-18
A memorial service to celebrate Maria's life will be held this Saturday, August 2nd, at 10:30 AM at 6177 Kimberly Blvd, North Lauderdale, FL 33068, Calvary Chapel's North Lauderdale Campus.
For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live-streamed at https://calvaryftl.org/memorialservice/
What’s your fondest memory of Maria?
What’s a lesson you learned from Maria?
Share a story where Maria's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Maria you’ll never forget.
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