Judith "Judi" E. Ponda, age 70, passed away Wednesday, December 15, 2021.  She was born in Corinth, Mississippi on May 11, 1951 to the late J.C. and Jessie (nee Rogers) Wilbanks.  Judi and her husband, Michael enjoyed traveling all over in their RV and they were "snowbirds", spending all their winters in Arizona.  Her Yorkie dogs were her whole world.  She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend.

She is survived by her daughter, Kelley Ponda; son, Chris (Susan) Ponda; granddaughter, Natosha Parketon; great grandchildren, Allee, Anslee Michael; brother, Rick (Rose) Wilbanks; nephew, Justin Wilbanks; best friend, Bobbie Goodwin; special friend and caretaker, Julie Smoot; special niece and caretaker, Tracy Ponda; beloved Yorkies, Joey, Rudy; and grand dogs, Oliver, Olive, Ruby, Zoey.

Judi was preceded in death by her husband of 44 years, Michael "Mickey" Ponda; and Yorkie dogs, Punky, Toby, Maddy.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to VNA Hospice, 501 Marquette St. Valparaiso, IN 46383.

A funeral service will take place Saturday, December 18, 2021 at 7:00 pm with nephew and Minister Jerry Cleek officiating at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel with visitation prior to the service from 5-7 pm. Cremation will follow. For more information, please call 219-762-3013.