Marcella Mae Ponder

Marcella Mae Ponder was born on May 17, 1932, in Stanton, Missouri, to Herman Richardson and Florence Wranik. She was raised with strong roots, deep values, and an unshakable sense of family, qualities that defined her life until her passing on February 6, 2026.

Marcella was a woman of her generation in the best sense of the word, part of the “never say never” crowd. She believed in perseverance, grit, and showing up no matter what. Her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. Her home was always open, and her love was always full. She gave 100 percent of herself, all of the time.

The great love of Marcella’s life was her husband, and together they built a life centered on commitment, loyalty, and devotion. Family was never optional to Marcella; it was everything. She taught those she loved that blood is thicker than water, to never forget where you come from, and to be fiercely loyal to those who earn your trust.

She had a deep love for people and genuinely enjoyed being with them. That love expressed itself through conversation, laughter, and the simple joy of a shared game of bingo. She loved music and found joy in expressing herself through singing and dancing, bringing life and warmth wherever she went.

Proud of her Irish ancestry, Marcella was loving and kind, but only until she wasn’t. Those who knew her well would smile knowingly at that truth. She was strong, tough, and determined. If necessary, she could clear a room, but her strength was matched by her devotion and care for those she loved.

She was survived by three children, Frances Thexton and husband, Larry, William R. Ponder, Jr., and wife, Leslie, and Margie Ponder; ten grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Her parents, husband, son, Greg Ponder, and brother, Eugene Richardson preceded her in death.

Arrangements under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home.