Richard Ponsford

Richard G. Ponsford D.D.S., member of a pioneer El Paso family, passed away peacefully in his home on January 29, 2021 at the age of 64, due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Just like he dealt with all experiences in life, Rick managed his illness with strength, humor, and grace, and wanted to spend as much time with his loved ones as possible. In his final days, Rick was surrounded by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren who he adored more than anything else in the world. Visits, calls, and messages from his many life-long friends buoyed the spirits of Rick and his family throughout his illness. Rick was born in El Paso, TX to John Anderson Ponsford MD and Carolyn Gay Ponsford. He was preceded in death by both his parents and his brother Jack Ponsford. He will be dearly missed by his wife Andi; his children Cameron and Atoosa Ponsford, Tricia and Mike Chinnici (Lainey), Mitchell and Rachel Ponsford (Caleb and Collin), and Jenna and Davis Scott (Clara, Asher, Siena, Felicity, and Josephine); his sister Leigh Lovelady; and sister-in-law Caroline Ponsford. Rick attended Coronado High School in El Paso, TX where he was student body president and graduated from Austin College in Sherman, TX as a chemistry major. He earned a doctorate in dental sciences from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio before returning to El Paso with his bride Andi to start his dental practice on the west side of El Paso. Rick served the El Paso/Juarez community as a skilled and compassionate dentist for 36 years, donating many hundreds of pro bono dental procedures to those in need. Many generations of patients and staff members remember him fondly for his gentleness, proficiency, and charisma in the office. Over the course of his career, Rick was also an active member of Rotary International, the El Paso Dental Society, Coronado Country Club, and Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Rick was an avid golfer throughout his adult life and relished the many friendships he developed on the golf course. He traveled the world with his wife, family, and friends, and reveled in untold cruises, ski trips, music festivals, and concerts over the years. Whether as a guest or as a host in his family home, Rick was renowned for being the life of the party, and his smile and quick wit were legendary. Deep relationships with his extended family, friends, and neighbors brought Rick immense joy, and he spread generosity, laughter, and warmth everywhere he went. Being a kind and dependable father and grandfather was of the utmost importance to Rick, and he certainly did not disappoint when it came to wholeheartedly loving and providing for his family. The graveside memorial service will be held at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in El Paso on Friday, February 5th at 2:00pm and will be live-streamed on Facebook. Additionally, the 12:00pm Friday mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in El Paso will be dedicated to Rick. His family will be present at both to welcome loved ones. In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to www.alstexas.org