Ms. Vernell M. "Darsie" Ponton

Vernell M. “Darsie” Ponton was born the 10th day of June in the year 1923 in the family home at 728 Eighteenth Street in Newport News, Virginia. She is the daughter of the late James W. Ponton and Mary Edith Scott Ponton of Nansemond County, Virginia. She departed this life on the morning of December 26, 2014, at her lifelong home at 728 Eighteenth Street, to be with her Lord and Savior. Darsie was a very stern matriarch, and she loved the Lord and her family. She was a life-long member of Wesley Grove United Church of Christ, where she was a member of the senior choir, singing praise unto the Lord until her health no longer allowed. Darsie was a charter member of Rhema Christian Center (now Mountain Moving Faith Ministry). Darsie lost her mother at a very young age. She was always known to proudly say “I’m a ‘pappy-raised girl’”. She is remembered for how she fought battles for her family – both literally and figuratively. No one messed with a Ponton child. She was very particular about her children. She also cared for family, friends and neighbors in their times of need. She retired from Hampton Institute (University) after 30 years of service. She shared her love of cooking and was known at the school for her macaroni and cheese. She also worked at the Atmosphere Restaurant for 10 years. Customers raved about her service, and her flavorful steaks and ribs, and tipped her generously. She always mentioned that those folks tipped her so well that she was able afford the fine things she loved to wear –like her Aigner shoes and purses, and shopping at her favorite stores like Leggett’s, Parisian’s and Nachman’s, to name a few. She was a very stylish woman. She is survived by one brother, Albert M Ponton, of Lakewood, Washington. She is survived by two daughters, Paula M. Gillis and Barbara Brown (Keith), of Newport News. She is survived by three sons, Bruce Ponton (Manesia), David Ponton, and James Bates, all of Newport News. She was preceded in death by her son Thelbert “Billy” Ponton. She was preceded in death by her brothers Alvin, Petey, Bill, James “JC”, Alexander “Cap”, and Rochelle “Peggy” Ponton; and by her two sisters Louise “Liz” Day, and Arnetta “Mint” Threatt. Vernell M Ponton leaves behind 8 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Tuesday, December 30, 2014 12 pm until 6 pm. Graveside services will be held on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at 12 pm in Hampton Memorial Gardens, located at 155 Butler Farm Rd, Hampton, VA. 23666.

Ms. Vernell M. "Darsie" Ponton

June 10, 1923 - December 26, 2014