Joan Ponthier-Garcia
Joan is grateful for God's guidance through many seasons of life and brings a lifetime of diverse experiences, a heart for service, and a deep appreciation for Christian fellowship to St. James on the Lake Episcopal Church.
Born and raised in the Chicago area, Joan studied Computer Science at Purdue University and Theater at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Early in her career, she became co-owner of an international software consulting company, leading innovative projects in banking, Wall Street trading, aviation, telecommunications, and defense technology while working with clients throughout the United States.
While Joan enjoyed a successful business career, her greatest joy was raising her family. She chose to put down roots in North Texas to be a full-time mother and later married her husband, Rick. A lifelong learner, she also pursued real estate studies and helped manage the family's rental properties. She remained active in her children's lives, including serving as President of the Allen High School Choir Booster Club.
After becoming empty nesters, Joan and Rick moved to Mabank and found a welcoming church home at St. James. The warmth and kindness they experienced inspired Joan to become actively involved in the life of the parish. She is grateful to serve in several ministries and considers it a privilege to serve as Clerk of the Vestry.
Joan and Rick are proud parents of three accomplished children: a son who graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point and serves as an Army Special Forces Major, an accomplished daughter working in the music industry, and a younger daughter who graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with degrees in Biomedical and Software Engineering and now works as a software engineer.
Joan enjoys spending time with family and friends, golfing, traveling, lifelong learning, and, most of all, serving God alongside her St. James church family.
