Evelyn Irene Stotts was born on March 27, 1932 on the Stotts family farm in Prairie Township, Fremont County, Iowa, the daughter of Roy and Bertha (Loury) Stotts.  Evelyn entered into eternal peace on October 16, 2022 in Clarinda, Iowa at the blessed age of 90 years.

Evelyn attended Mayflower Country School through the 8th grade.  The school, which was built by Evelyn's grandfather, sat across from the family farm.  She then attended Sidney High School and graduated with the Class of 1949.   She went on to obtain her teaching certificate from Peru State College.

Evelyn taught in country schools,  but due to health reasons had to leave teaching for a period of time.  She then worked at JC Penney's and Tidy House.  On October 31, 1952 Evelyn was united in marriage to Harry Pontious in Red Oak, Iowa.  When Harry enlisted in the National Guard, the couple moved to Fort Benning, Georgia before returning to Shenandoah.  Upon her return to Southwest Iowa, she began teaching once again, this time in Sidney.  She later returned to school  and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Education from Buena Vista University.  She then attended the University of Nebraska Omaha and earned her certification to teach special needs.  She taught elementary and secondary special education in Farragut until her retirement from teaching.   She continued to volunteer  where needed throughout the community.

Evelyn was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Shenandoah.    She enjoyed eating out, square dancing and  spending time with family.  In 2006 Harry and Evelyn were recipients of The Cornerstone Award,  for their work to make Shenandoah a better place to live.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband of 67 years, Harry; and siblings Ralph, Mary, Franklin, Shirley and Bob.   She is survived by her brother Jack, sister Sue, numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.