Elinor Ann Vontz

In Loving Memory of Elinor Ann Held Vontz ("EliAnn")

1941 – 2025

Elinor Ann Held Vontz, known affectionately as EliAnn, passed away peacefully after a long illness on September 18, 2025, in Richmond, Texas, at the age of 84.

Born in Hamilton, Ohio in 1941, EliAnn lived a life committed to a deep faith in Jesus Christ and God’s guidance. Marked by grace, curiosity, and quiet strength, she was a woman of strong intellect and warm spirit, whose presence brought comfort and joy to those around her. Through her career as a legal secretary and later as editor of medical research articles, EliAnn shared her acute knowledge of precise language.

She was known for her thoughtful listening, impeccable taste, unwavering loyalty, and for her ability to make others feel truly seen. EliAnn’s legacy lives on in the hearts of those she touched.

She is survived by husband of 50 years, Joseph Vontz, stepson Jerod D. Vontz, siblings Donna Beth Ingersoll of Albuquerque, NM; Marine Corps MSgt (Ret.) McDonald W. Held, Jr. of Billings, MT; John A. Held III of Krakow, Poland; four step-grandchildren, three nieces and two nephews, and an extended faith family beyond counting who will carry forward her memory with love and gratitude. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. McDonald W. Held and Beverly Bennett Held of Billings, MT; and a brother, Marine Corps Major (Ret.) Raymond B. Held of San Diego, CA.

A memorial service will be held on October 20th, from 10 AM- Noon, at Beth Yeshua Ha Mashiach, 7000 Bellaire Blvd.; Houston, TX, with details available through www.byhm.net. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to Beth Yeshua, or the charity of your choice, in honor of EliAnn’s lifelong commitment to God.

EliAnn will be deeply missed and forever remembered.