Willie Franklin Ponder

A Time to Be Born: Willie Franklin Ponder was born on January 1, 1948. Blessed by his birth were his proud and loving parents, Arthur Ponder and Willie Mae Lundy Ponder. He was the ninth of eleven children.

A Time to Aspire: Frank received his education in the Dougherty County School System, graduating from Monroe High School in 1967. One of his proudest moments was when he was awarded the Certificate of Merit for Service which was signed by his principal, Mr. Melvin Heard, and his teacher, Mrs. E. F. Lawson. He continued his acts of service when he was hired by Milton “June Bug” Griffin at June Bug’s Grocery. Frank could always be found pumping gas for one of his favorite customers...Mrs. Wynona Thomas who dearly loved him.

A Time to Praise: Frank was a longtime member of the River Road Church of Christ (presently Church of Christ at Gaines Avenue) where he joined under the leadership of Bro. Marion Holliday. During Frank’s attendance, he was known to be a cheerful giver!

A Time to Mourn: Frank entered into eternal rest on Thursday, June 8, 2023. He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers: John Henry Ponder, Eugene Ponder, James Athones Ponder, George Ponder, and Clifford Ponder; and two sisters, Arthur Lee P. Williams, and Zola P. Henley.

A Time to Bereave: Frank’s legacy of love and precious memories are left to his sisters: Annie P. Blassingame, Macon, GA; Jacquelyn P. Griffin, Albany, GA; and Patricia P. Porter (Kary), Albany, GA; one brother-in-law: Robert L. Henley, Dothan, AL; two sisters-in-law, Valencia S. Ponder, Jacksonville, FL; and Melody J. Ponder, Macon, GA; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, church family, and friends.

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