Amy Michelle Pensyl

Amy Michelle Pensyl of Portland, Texas entered eternal life on Monday, February 17, 2025, following her recent acute leukemia diagnosis in November of 2024. Amy gave her heart to the Lord during her teenage years and remained active in churches her father pastored in Iowa and Texas.

Amy was born on July 13, 1971 in Piqua, Ohio to Donald R. and Joyce E. Smith. She was preceded in death by her father. She is survived by her daughters Jordan Morris (Justin) and Chelsie Hall (Logan); sister, Tammy Hermann (Tim); mother, Joyce Smith; grandsons, Brayden and Robby Morris; nieces and nephews Megan Still (Michael), Ben, Jason and Jayme Hermann.

She had just learned that she would have a third grandson (Clayton Hall) in June 2025. She considered herself to be very blessed and was eager to meet baby Clay in a few more months.

Amy wanted to be at home with her daughters during their young years. When they were older, she attended Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, then transferred to Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi to complete her Bachelor’s Degree in Education. 

 She began teaching at Oak Park Elementary in Corpus Christi in 2009 and enrolled at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona where she earned a Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology. Amy loved being a teacher and received many kind words and notes from students and parents throughout her teaching career. She was delighted to have her hair cut and styled two years ago by one of her former students, and to receive a phone call while receiving chemotherapy at M. D. Anderson from a former student who told her he planned to become a teacher and that she would always hold the honor of being his favorite teacher. Amy was especially drawn to students who seemed to need a little extra encouragement. 

Amy was also deeply devoted to her family and friends. She would do anything she could to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed. Her bright blue eyes, her beautiful smile, and her contagious laughter will be missed by all of us who greatly loved her.

A visitation will be held Saturday, March 8, 2025 from 9:00-10:00 a.m. with a memorial service to begin at 10:00 a.m. at Winsteads' Funeral Home in Portland. 

Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of the professionals at Winsteads’ Funeral Home. (361) 643-6564 www.winsteadsfuneralhome.com