“Well done, good and faithful servant” were likely the words Mary Elizabeth Haynes Ponder heard Jan. 5, 2026, arriving in heaven!
She was born to John F. and Fleda Haynes in Bingen, Ark., Feb. 2, 1924. Mary was the fourth child, following Wendell, Chester and Paul. Following Mary were sisters Sara and Frances. Mary was a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church in Nashville, Ark., as long as her health allowed.
Preceding Mary in death were her parents, three brothers, sisters-in-law, Bette Haynes and Joyce Haynes, who was more like a sister than sister-in-law. Mary also was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Coy Ponder.
Mary is survived by her three sons, Danny (Nell), David (Debbie) and Tim (Carla). Her grandchildren, Benjamin (Amy), Jacob and Beth Ann Davenport (Josh), Devin (Emily) and Kevin (Ali). Also Melanie Fox (Jacob), Hayden Ponder (Tabitha), Hannah Worthen (Dustin) and Kaitlin Couch (Colton).
Mary also has 17 great-grandchildren to carry on her legacy.
She is also survived by her sisters Sara Young and Frances Aylett, along with numerous nephews, many nieces and friends.
Mamaw and Papaw instilled in all six of their children the need for them to love Jesus, their family and friends!
To many people in Nashville Mary, Sara and Frances were affectionately called “the sisters” due to their closeness and willingness to help so many. Often these people were much younger than them.
Mamaw and Papaw’s influence on all of their children resulted in Mary’s nieces, Becky Parnell, Karen Shofner and Tammy Bowden to giving Aunt Mary so much love and attention. Also, great nephew Brodie Backus brought great joy and happiness to Aunt Mary and many other nursing home residents over many years with his hugs and affection.
Her family is extremely grateful to the staff at Nashville Nursing Home for their love and care. Hospice nurse Betsy McJunkins was our earthly angel!
The family will receive friends from 1 p.m. until the service begins on Saturday, Jan. 10, 2025, at Latimer Funeral Home in Nashville.
A Celebration of Life will follow at 2 p.m. in the Latimer Funeral Chapel in Nashville. Interment will follow at Restland Memorial Park, under the direction of Latimer Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Mary Ponder Educational Fund, C/O Ouachita Baptist University, 410410 Ouachita St., Box 3754, Arkadelphia, AR 71998.
You may send an online sympathy message at www.latimerfuneralhome.com.
