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Dewayne Ponder, age 79, passed into the loving arms of our Lord on April 22, 2026. Dewayne was born January 25, 1947, in Edmond, Oklahoma, to Cecil and Annie Ponder. At the time of his birth, the family lived in Arcadia, Oklahoma, before later moving to Hominy, Oklahoma, where Dewayne was raised.
Dewayne was a proud graduate of Hominy High School, Class of 1965. He was active in football, earning a scholarship to play at the college level. After a brief time in college, he returned home and was soon drafted to serve his country during the Vietnam War.
Dewayne met the love of his life, Dusty Goad, in 1967, and they were married in 1968. Together, they built a life centered on family, raising their two children, Mike and Donna. Dewayne and Dusty shared 58 years of marriage filled with love, laughter, and devotion. Dusty continues to reside in Cleveland, Oklahoma.
Dewayne loved the outdoors and often referred to it as "God's country." He found peace and comfort being outside, whether he was fishing, camping, or simply enjoying nature. To this day, those who knew him remember how at home he always was in God's country, where he felt most at peace. Dewayne was a man who truly loved his family and treasured the time spent together. Some of his happiest moments were at the lake, where weekends were often filled with camping, fishing, and laughter. He especially enjoyed catching big catfish-whether by rod and reel or by noodling with his own hands-and sharing the reward with family during memorable fish fries that became a cherished tradition.
He also loved playing cards and dominoes and was known for his uncanny ability to know exactly what everyone else was holding, making every game both competitive and fun.
Known for his warm heart and playful spirit, Dewayne never met a stranger. He loved to joke and tease, bringing laughter to those around him. He was also known for his simple, no-nonsense approach to life-especially when it came to coffee, which he firmly believed should always be enjoyed black. Dewayne will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy lives on in the memories shared by those who knew and loved him.
Dewayne is survived by his children, Mike Ponder and wife Stacy of Florida, Donna Miears and husband Alan of Cleveland, Oklahoma, his grandchildren, Rachael and husband Brady Ross, William and Jade Miears, Mathew and Joanna Miears, Emry and Boston Ponder, and Koen Ponder; and his great-grandchildren, Ashton, Bailey, Connor, Rugar, and CJ. He is also survived by his sister, Cecilia Ponder Williams and her wife Carol of Colorado.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Annie Ponder, his siblings Wanda Beck, Mozelle Bass, Jimmy Ponder, John Ponder and Ray Ponder
In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations made in honor of Dewayne to: Claremore Veterans Center 3001 West Blue Starr Drive Claremore, Oklahoma 74017 or a charity of your choice.
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