Gerald K "Jerry" Ponder, 84, of Richmond, went home peacefully to be with the LORD on May 20, 2025, surrounded by family. He was born August 31, 1940, in Richmond and lived here all of his life. He was the youngest son of Robert P. Sr. and Helen M. Dielkes Ponder.

Gerald was a 1958 graduate of Richmond High School and attended IU East in 1974 for 3 years.

He was married to the former Sue Ellen Mikesell on August 29, 1986; he and his wife attended and were members of the Fountain City Wesleyan Church.

Gerald was a career Firefighter, retiring from the Richmond Fire Department as a Lieutenant in 2006 after dedicating over 39 years of service. He enjoyed being outdoors, fishing, boating, and traveling with family.

He is survived by his son, Robert T. (Peggy S.) Ponder Sr., two step-daughters Pamela S. Earlywine and Janet L. Campbell all of Richmond; five grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, six step great-great grandchildren, one sister in law Jan (Ken) Love, three brother in laws, James (Lin) Mikesell, Jay (Joan) Mikesell, and Joe (Amy) Mikesell, nieces and nephews; close family Lisa Bauer, Natasha Bauer, Nevyn Bauer-Allen.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Sue, one son James W., four brothers Melvin E., William, Robert P. Jr., and Dale, and one grandson Shaun Ryan.

Services will be 1:00 PM Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home; burial will be in Crown Hill Cemetery. Friends may call from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorial Contributions may be given to HELP the Animals, Inc., 2101 West Main St., Richmond, Indiana 47374. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stegallberheideorr.com