William Henry Ponder

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course and I have kept the faith.” II Timothy 4:7

A Time to Be Born: William Henry Ponder was born on April 10, 1953, to parents, the late John Ponder and the late Lottie Spencer (John W.) Thomas in Thomasville, Georgia.

A Time to Grow: William grew up in Thomasville, Georgia, and spent summers with his maternal grandmother the late Rachael Wooten Spencer in Simmon Hill, Dixie, Georgia. William attended Thomasville city schools and graduated with the class of 1971 Thomasville High School. There, he was an astounding football player. He attended the University of Notre Dame briefly.

A Time to Unite: William married the former Kathy Montgomery, and to this union, three daughters were born. When he moved back to Thomas County after living in West Palm, Florida, William met and married Karen Grant and gained two daughters.

A Time to Work: In 1975, William enlisted in the United States Army and received an honorable discharge. He worked at Southwestern State Hospital and Scott Senior Center until his health declined.

A Time to Accept: William accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized by Reverend Dembo Monroe at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church.

A Time to Depart: On Wednesday afternoon, January 18, 2023, calmness and peace encircled the air of William’s room with serenity and comfort. His spirit of peace and joy entered into eternal rest in the presence of The Lord.

Those Cherishing His Memories: His five caring daughters, Latoria Ponder, Nicole Ponder Palesia (Michael) Simmons, Caroline Grant, and Carrie (O’Shay) Grant; grandchildren, Mykuria, Malik, Joseph Lurry, Justice, Riley, Taylor, Camron, Cason, and Kash; three loving sisters, Estella (Joseph) Barru, Charlotte (Gilbert) Johnson, and Samantha Jackson; five devoted brothers, Melven Davis, Donald (Marlis) Davis, John (Deborah) Thomas, Vernard (Mary) Jackson, and Charles (Jennifer) Jackson; Sister Florence Knight-Jones and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A Time to Mourn: William was preceded in death by his parents, John Ponder and Lottie Spencer (John W.) Thomas; sisters, Betty Davis, Mary H. (Gabe) Futch, and Wessie L. Thomas; and brothers Ray Davis, Sr., and George (Constance) Davis, Sr.