Herman Alfred "AL" Ponton

Herman Alfred Ponton Jr., (Al), age 72 of Lovingston, Virginia closed his eyes and awoke in the arms of Jesus on Sunday morning, July 23, 2023.  He fought a courageous battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS).

Al was born in Charlottesville, Virginia on January 27, 1951 to the late Herman Alfred Ponton Sr. and Frances Ashley Ponton.  He graduated from Nelson County High School.  After graduating, he proudly served our country in the Army and Army Reserves.  After leaving the military service, Al went to work for Southern Air as a certified electrician where he retired after 33 years of service.  He was a Master Mason of the Fleetwood Harmony Masonic Lodge No.0092; City Elder, member of Moose Lodge #2032, Piney River, and he volunteered with the Lovingston Fire Department.  Al was devoted to his church, Calvary Baptist in Lovingston, and served as a Deacon. He was also Chairman of Building & Grounds and served on the Welcoming Committee and the Baptism Ordinance.

Al is survived by his wife who was the true love of his life, Brenda Terry Ponton, his son, Hunter Franklin Ponton, his sisters, Kay Brown of Lovingston, Virginia and Amy Ponton Stevens of Summerfield, Florida.  Also surviving is his step-daughter, Dana Bryant, Evington, Virginia; step-grandchildren, Shania Turman, Donnie Bryant III, Brennan and Ethan Tyree; step great-grandchildren, Raeleigh and Jax whom he loved as his own.  Two nieces, Amelia Stevens and Leslie Ozz, three nephews, Kevin Fields, Christopher Ponton, Noah Stevens, great nephew, Kevin Fields Jr.; and a great-great nephew, Andrew Fields.  Al leaves behind other family members, friends and his church family that will be lost without his sweet presence.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Johnny Ponton, and his nephew David Fields.

Al will always be remembered for his Christ like humility, kindness and service.  Rain or shine, he happily helped anyone in need at any time, putting others above himself as Christ has asked of us.  As busy as he was, he still made time for his wife (whom he lovingly referred to as his bride), children, step-children, step-grandchildren, in various activities to include UVA football (Go Hoos!), school activities, cheerleading events, birthday celebrations, family gatherings, and many special church events. He shared his love throughout a lifetime of selfless actions that will never fade in the memories of those that knew him. Whenever you hear someone say “it is what it is” think of Al as this was his favorite saying.

A service celebrating his life and faith will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. Saturday, July 29, 2023 at Calvary Baptist Church in Lovingston with Rev. John Campbell, Carlton Ballowe and Tyler Lucas officiating.  Service will include Masonic and Military Rites. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.  A private burial will be held at a later date.

The family will receive friends from 12:00 - 1:00 pm prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Calvary Baptist Church, 8408 Thomas Nelson Hwy., Lovingston, VA 22949.

Arrangements by the Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel of Lovingston (434-263-4097).