David “Poppy” Ponder, 69 of Moundville, went to his forever home on the morning of August 21, 2025, passing peacefully in the comfort of his recliner. A devoted husband , father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather, David lived a life of faith, love, and service. He was a Godly man, confident in the promise that he would one day see his Lord and savior face to face.
David worked for the Tuscaloosa County Road Crew for 26 years, serving 16 of those years as superintendent. During his career he built not just roads, but lifelong friendships with co workers and members of the community. Known for his easygoing nature, sharp humor, and generous heart, David never met a stranger. His presence made people feel welcome, and his giving spirit touched countless lives.
Family was David’s greatest joy. He cherished every moment with his beloved wife of 34 years, Teresa, and loved being surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, Whether sharing stories, offering wisdom, or “just piddling around,” David’s quiet strength and warmth were the heartbeat of the family. His absence leaves an everlasting hole in the hearts of all who loved him, but his legacy of kindness, faith, and love lives on.
David was preceded in death by his parents; Leon and Beth Ponder, and his brother; Tommy Ponder.
He is survived by his wife, Teresa Ponder; his children, Ann Deerman (Donnie) of Panama City Beach, Kellie Burch (Keith) of Moundville, and Randy Yeager (Liz) of Moundville; siblings, Pam Young (Ronald), Debbie Ingram (Dale), Janie Kinard (Del); grandchildren, Destin Deerman (Melanie), Desiree Deerman, Donavann Deerman, Presley Miller-Burch, Kodie Burch, Christian Burch, Levi Yeager, and Jamieson Yeager; greatgrandchildren; Ledger Deerman, Everleigh Deerman, KJ Burch and many nieces and nephews who adored him.
Pallbearers will be Keith Burch, Tony Gilliland, Donnie Deerman, Landon Kinard, Kolton Kinard, Eddie Young, Calvin Young, and Randy Yeager. Honorary pallbearers will be Church of the Vine, Uncle Wayne Baker, Tim Nix, Kent Savoie, Jerry Deerman, Walter Jackson, Bill Austin, Tuscaloosa County Road Crew, DCH Cancer Center (Dr. Hughes and Nurses), KC Drugs, the extended Beach family, AMIV Health and Wellness, Hale County EMS, BCHS class of 1974, Panic Rev, Dr. Joshua Price, CNRA Andrea Stringfellow, and Nurse Michelle Simmons.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to the Church of the Vine, Moundville, AL., or the DCH Lewis and Faye Manderson Cancer Center.
David will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his love for his family, and his favorite saying “I’m easy, I just ain’t cheap.”
Services will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025 at 11:00 am at Church of the Vine with Pastor Clifton Mitchem. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 26, 2025 at Magnolia Chapel South from 6:00 pm ~ 8:00 pm.
