William "Bill" Rollie Ponder

William "Bill" Rollie Ponder, beloved husband, respected businessman, and devoted community member, passed away on June 12, 2026, in his lifelong hometown of Thomasville, Georgia. He was born on October 13, 1933, to Rollie Litt Ponder and Juanita Clark Ponder. His life was marked by dedication, warmth, and a profound commitment to his family and community.

William, affectionately known as Bill, graduated from Thomasville High School in 1951, where he played football, and one of his proudest accomplishments was becoming an Eagle Scout. After high school, he attended the University of South Carolina, where he graduated with a degree in business administration. He also spent a year studying law. In 1955, he proudly joined the United States Army, serving at Fort Jackson in South Carolina, where he held the rank of E-2. His military service laid the foundation for a life of service that would continue beyond his military years.

On June 25, 1955, Bill married the love of his life, Joann Ballard Ponder. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey, traveling to 56 countries around the world and all over the country, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Among the cherished destinations they explored were Mexico Beach, Florida and Lake Louise, England.

Bill was a proud owner of Ponder's Inc., a business that became a cornerstone of the Thomasville community. Early in his career, he made a commitment that Ponder's would become a one-stop shopping headquarters for office supply needs and would also become not just another sales company, but a service center that could also serve as a consultant to local businessmen. Bill was the president of Ponder's for 50 years and Ponder's is currently in its 93rd year of business. Ponder's started in commercial printing and with Bill's vision, he expanded it into office supplies and computers and grew it into the business that it is today.

His entrepreneurial spirit was matched only by his commitment to community service. He was an active member of the Kiwanis Club, Downtown Development Authority, and the Mainstreet Boards, where he contributed his time and energy to better the lives of those around him. He was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Thomasville, where he served as a deacon for many years. His insight and leadership were deeply respected, leaving an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. In his free time, he enjoyed bicycling and was an avid tennis player.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Rollie and Juanita Ponder.

Bill is survived by his devoted spouse of 71 years, Joann Ponder; sister, Jacqueline Ponder Varnedoe (Heeth); children William Todd Ponder (Elizabeth) and Julie Ponder Carter (York); grandchildren, Ballard Ponder, Harrison Ponder, Landon Carter, Bree Carter, and Clark Carter.

Funeral services to honor Bill's life will be held at the First Baptist Church Sanctuary in Thomasville, Ga on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 11 am. He will be laid to rest at Laurel Hill Cemetery.

William Ponder's legacy of love, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him. He leaves behind not just memories but also a profound example of what it means to live a life of purpose and service. May he rest in peace.