David F. "J.R." Pond

I was fortunate to know David back in grade school. Something I always remember even way back in Elementary school was that he was always willing to help me or someone else out. He had a certain humbleness and kindness about him. We were usually seated near each other due to our last names being so close in the alphabet. I can remember trying to make him laugh when class was going on and he'd sneak a few laughs in in-between focusing on class. If there were more J.R. Ponds in the world it would be a better place.

David and I knew each other from working summer school together and also from Cowley College Gym. We became the closest of friends when I started teaching social studies at the middle school. We would get to school at the same time every day and start each day together praying. I became deathly ill and David always checked on me. He saw how much pain I was in before being hospitalized and how much it affected me after all my surgeries. He was quick to say, "It will not be too much longer now, brother. Jesus is sure to come soon and we will no longer be in pain." You are no longer in pain my brother, it is we who are in pain for losing you. You were my best friend here in Ark City. I miss you already, but I will see you soon as my work is finished, or Jesus comes back for the rest of us.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. We enjoyed having you visit to use the computer and then stay with us to watch the KU Jayhawks or the Chiefs. You always had a smile, loved working with the students, and being a leader for the paras and the teaching profession. Love-Evelyn and Corey Shoup