Mike Ponder

Mike C. Ponder, age 83, died Friday, August 6, 2021.

Celebration of life services will be held at Ott and Lee of Brandon on Saturday, August 14, 2021, at 11am with visitation prior to the service from 9am-11am.  The family is holding a private graveside service afterwards.  Rev. Ted Giordano will officiate.

Mike was born on March 5, 1938, to Elton and Lyda Jane Ponder of Johns, MS.  He graduated from Puckett High School and Mississippi College, where he enjoyed a sparkling basketball career that culminated in his enshrinement in the Mississippi College Sports Hall of Fame.  Mike was a renowned basketball coach for many years at Brandon High School and Brandon Academy, winning state championships at Brandon High in both basketball and baseball and being honored as conference “Coach of the Year” multiple times.  Mike also served as Tax Collector and Supervisor for Rankin County along with working several years for the Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind.  Mike was very active in several civic organizations, most prominently the Lion’s Club where he served a term as District Governor.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings Russell, Edna, John Lindsey, Marion, and Wayne.  He is survived by his sons Tom Ponder (Christy) of Jacksonville, FL and Joel Ponder of Brandon; six grandchildren Lindsey Ponder Lewis (Hunter), Taylor Ponder McKay (Kevin), Ali Ponder, Baylee Ponder, Tal Ponder, and Jordan Ponder; and two great-grandchildren Matleigh Lewis and Sully McKay.

Memorials can be to the Addie McBryde Rehabilitation Center for the Blind, Attn. Mike Flynt, 2550 Peachtree Street, Jackson, MS 39216.