April 21, 2022
Bobby Ray Ponder age 85, passed away at his residence in Smithville, Wednesday April 20, 2022. He was born December 1, 1936 to his parents the late J. E. and Geneva Cantrell Ponder. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by brothers, Garlon Ponder, Eugene Ponder, and Cordell Ponder; sisters, Lucille Collins, Helen Frazier, and Mairhene Prater. He was a member of Buckner’s Chapel United Methodist Church and worked at Textron. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jewell Dean Gibbs Ponder of Smithville; brother, Glendon J. (Marie) Ponder of Smithville; sisters-in-law, DeEtte Shelton of Dowelltown, Alma (Jerry) Montgomery of Dowelltown; several Nieces and Nephews also survive. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 23, 2022 at 11:00AM at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Darrell Gill officiating and burial to follow in DeKalb Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be Friday 11:00AM till 7:00PM and on Saturday 9:00AM until the time of the service at 11:00AM. The funeral home lounge is currently closed and no food or drinks are allowed in the funeral home. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.