Obituary of Mason Tomes Ponder

Mason Tomes Ponder, 26-year-old resident of Poplar Bluff, MO, departed this life Wednesday, September 13, 2023. He was born April 4, 1997, in Poplar Bluff to Gregory Lynn Ponder of Doniphan, MO and Sherri Tomes Ponder of Poplar Bluff.

Mason was tenderhearted and witty with a sense of humor that he loved to share. He loved others and cherished their love and friendship. Making others happy was his goal in life. Mason was a gamer and enjoyed any type of game, especially video games, whether playing on his own or challenging friends and family. His family knew when Mason brought out the Uno cards, they were in for a lengthy session. His friends and family were of utmost importance to him, and he thrived on family get togethers. Mason was always looking forward to each occasion when he could spend time with family. As one event was winding down, he was ready to begin setting the date for the next one. Mason was an explorer at heart delighting in any opportunity to scout out a unique view to photograph or a geocaching adventure. Photography was his true calling. He was proud to be a photographer and all that entailed, including his appreciation of a variety of cameras and editing his photographs.

Mason leaves behind his parents; a sister, Sierra Ponder of Poplar Bluff; a brother, Brooks Ponder (Morgan Hampton), also of Poplar Bluff; and maternal grandparents, Leonard Tomes of Poplar Bluff and Frances “Francie” Branch Tomes, also of Poplar Bluff.

Mason was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Chester (Bud) and Dorothy Ponder, and a niece, Bentley Maxine Ponder.

Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, September 16, 2023, beginning at 2:00 p.m. with a remembrance service to follow at 4:00 p.m. Brother Kevin Guthrie will be officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Mason’s name to St. Louis Children’s Hospital at support.stlouischildrens.org.