Henry R. Ponder

Henry R. (H.R.) Ponder joined his Savior, Jesus Christ, August 24, 2017. He suffered complications following a hip break. Henry was born September 24, 1928, to Henry R. and Mary Willie (Buckalew) Ponder. He married Genell Rhodes and made Corsicana their home. They enjoyed a 64 year marriage and loved and reared two daughters, Cynthia and Cathy. Henry was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Corsicana. He served in various ways until his health would not allow. As newlyweds, Henry and Genell joined Memorial Baptist Church. Henry served 35 years as a Deacon and in teaching positions. H.R. graduated Emhouse High School and, as a 16 year old, began classes at Hill County College. The next year, he enrolled at the newly established Navarro College. He was a member of the "Barracks Bunch" and enjoyed their annual reunions. Baylor University was next before he joined the U.S. Army. Ultimately, he was sent to Korea during the Korean Conflict. He experienced God's hand of protection and delivery many times. Following his Korean tour of duty, he returned home and found work in Corsicana. As he had previously been employed with Safeway, he returned to their employ again for a short stint until he began his U.S. Postal Service career. He retired and launched a Woodman of the World career. After retiring a second time, he focused on spending time with his family, traveling, painting, and baking pies for others. Henry is survived by his devoted wife, Genell, daughters, Cynthia Pope of Corsicana and Cathy Brooks and husband Steve of Westerville, Ohio. Grandchildren, Chad Pope and family Jessica, Ashlyn and Haley, Brent Pope and daughters Dalila and Chloe, Kyle Pope and his wife, Celeste, children, Maddax and Caitlin, and Lee Brooks and Madeline Brooks. He is also survived by his sister, Ruth Neeper and her husband Leland of Longview. The family would like to Thank those who have visited and cared for Henry during his declining years. What a blessing his family and friends have been. Special thanks to Janquilyn D. Merida, DNP, APRN, BC FNP for the years of excellent care and Dr. Kent Rogers for the superb care during Henry's most difficult period. Cody Herod, Laura Talbert Jones and Jeff Jones, and Robert Horvath have given wonderful care and support. The kind and diligent staff at Twilight Home is greatly appreciated. Thanks to the Navarro Regional's amazing second floor staff and Family First Hospice. Their superior care blessed our family. Visitation will be held at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home from 3:00 - 5:00 pm on Sunday, August 27, 2017. Funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church of Corsicana at 10:00 am Monday, August 28, 2017 with Dr. Danny Reeves officiating. Burial will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations to the FBC Corsicana Building Fund.

Henry R. Ponder

September 24, 1928 - August 24, 2017