Harold Ray Ponder, 63, of Hammond, IL, passed away at 3:45 A.M. Sunday, October 26, 2008 in Moultrie County, IL

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 A.M., Thursday, October 30, 2008 at the Hilligoss Shrader Funeral Home, 66 East US Highway 36, Atwood, IL with the Rev. Patricia Hutton officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M., Wednesday, October 29, 2008 at the funeral home. Burial will be in the Hammond Cemetery.

Mr. Ponder was born on December 12, 1944 in Decatur, IL, the son of Ray and Maude Eskridge Ponder. He married Katana Sue Flanagan on April 12, 1973 in Arcola, IL. She survives

Other survivors include: 2 Sons: James Ponder and wife: Jennifer of Grayslake, IL, Josh Ponder and wife: Becky of Hammond, IL, 1 Daughter: Kris Wagner and husband: Calvin of Bradley, IL, 1 Brother: Joe Ponder of Hammond, IL, 2 Granddaughters: Alex & Gabrielle

He was preceded in death by his parents.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested that memorials be made to the Atwood-Hammond School District or Hammond United Methodist Church

Mr. Ponder was a farmer and sold crop insurance for CF&H Insurance. He was the former mayor of Hammond. He was a former member and past president of the Atwood-Hammond School Board. Harold served on the Hammond Mutual Drainage District Board. Mr. Ponder formerly owned and operated Ponder Seed Company. He was a member of the Hammond United Methodist Church.

Condolences to the family may be sent to hilligossshraderfh.com