MARY JO PONSFORD MELBY

Class of 1959

Outstanding Ex-Student • El Paso High School

Biography

Born in El Paso, Texas, on March 2, 1941, Mary Jo Ponsford Melby is a fifth-generation Texan and third-generation El Pasoan whose life has been devoted to leadership, historic preservation, education, faith, and community service.

A graduate of Mesita Elementary School and El Paso High School's Class of 1959, Mary Jo distinguished herself as a varsity cheerleader, Page One Editor of The Tatler, a member of drama and creative writing organizations, and both a Football Princess and Spring Fiesta Princess. She later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design from The University of Texas at Austin.

Mary Jo married her high-school sweetheart, Everett Kinne "Willie" Melby. Together they raised three children while building a life centered on family, faith, and public service.

For decades she has been one of El Paso's most respected civic leaders, serving as President of the International Museum of Art Board, the El Paso County Historical Society, the National Society of Arts & Letters (El Paso Chapter), the El Paso Opera Foundation, the Pan American Round Table, the El Paso P.E.O. Council, Chapter AJ of P.E.O., and Delta Delta Delta Alumnae.

Her achievements have been recognized with induction into the El Paso Women's Commission Hall of Fame and selection as El Paso High School's Outstanding Ex-Student for 2018–2019.

Mary Jo proudly carries forward the legacy of the Ponsford family, pioneer builders who arrived in El Paso in 1897 and constructed many of the city's best-known landmarks, including the Plaza Theatre and the original Sun Bowl Stadium while working alongside architect Henry Trost.

A lifelong member of Trinity-First United Methodist Church, an accomplished traveler, artist, and student of history, Mary Jo exemplifies the values of scholarship, leadership, integrity, and service that have long defined the tradition of El Paso High School.

“Her life reflects the enduring spirit of the Lady on the Hill—service, scholarship, leadership, and pride in El Paso.”