It is with great sadness that the family of Jarilyn “Jari” M. Ponte, announces her passing on Wednesday, October 11, 2017, at the age of 67. Jari was surrounded by her loving husband and family in her final days.

Jari is preceded in death by her Parents, H. “Floyd” Mayhew and Eulene Mayhew (nee Stone) and her Brother, Thomas Craig Mayhew.

She is survived by her Stepmother Nina S. Mayhew, her Husband, Stephen D. Ponte, Children Lara C. Mayhew (Jennifer Zilka) and Benjamin J. Smith (Lisa S.), Stepchildren Jeffrey M. Ponte (Jeanine) and Jennifer L. Remspecher (Michael W.), her Grandchildren Morgan E. Smith, Emma D. Smith, Jacob B. Smith, Owen M. Remspecher, Celia A. Remspecher, Eli J. Remspecher and Zaidan M. Zilka, Siblings Deborah H. “Debbi” Comstock (Starr), Scott Mayhew, Paul S. Mayhew, Nephew Joshua A. Hill (Carrie) and her beloved Great Niece and Nephew, Grady and Mallory Hill.

Jari will be forever known for her endless smile and commitment to her husband and family. She spent countless hours sewing, quilting, and knitting beautiful works of art for those she loved. With a heart of gold, Jari also made countless handmade gifts for those in need. For a number of years, Jari co-owned Wool Gatherings, a Eureka, MO yarn shop. In addition to providing all things related to knitting, Jari helped to create a safe place to learn the craft of knitting & crocheting, while building camaraderie and a community of life-long friends. For those she so patiently taught, she provided a gift that will be everlasting.

Jari’s greatest happiness was the 32 years spent with her husband, Steve. Over the years, they travelled extensively and created a beautiful home, which was Jari’s sanctuary. Jari and Steve shared a beautiful love built on honesty, friendship, fun and an abundance of affection. She adored all of her Grandchildren and she was a very proud Grandma! Jari’s imprint on the people she touched will be indelible and she’ll be sorely missed.

Jari will be cremated and no services will be held, per her request. The family will host a celebration of Jari’s life, future date to be determined. In lieu of gifts & flowers, the family asks that instead, Memorial donations be placed in memory of Jarilyn M. Ponte to Project Linus at: http://www.projectlinus.org/donations/

Project Linus provides love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”