David F. "J.R." Pond

David F. "J.R." Pond II, 44, of Arkansas City, Ks died on May 5th, 2024, at his home.
David was born February 23, 1980, to David & Camille Pond in Arkansas City. David was the second child of this union and was the younger brother of Allyson. Throughout his youth, he was affectionately known as J.R. and his family continues to use this term of endearment. J.R. was raised in Arkansas City and graduated from Arkansas City High School in 1998. After high school, J.R. attended Cowley College and earned an Associate Degree in Non-Destructive Testing. In 2005, J.R. earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Southwestern College. While at Southwestern he was a member of Who's Who and he earned Summa Cum Laude Honors at graduation.
After graduation, David spent 9 years at St. Mary's Catholic School in Ponca City, Oklahoma as a teacher. Yearning to work closer to home, David accepted a paraprofessional position that allowed him to work in the Arkansas City USD 470 school system. David has been at the Arkansas City Middle School for the past several years. His demeanor, patience and composure allowed him to connect and help the kids with their day to day struggles. "Mr. Pond was special to our building", "reliable as a Rolex" and "full of compassion" are quotes from the staff and faculty that exemplify the qualities that David exhibited and pursued.
J.R. had a profound appreciation for sports, especially baseball and football. He could be found on Friday nights watching his hometown Bulldogs or Saturdays catching a double header at Tiger Field. He closely followed the seasons of the Kansas City Royals and the Kansas City Chiefs...through thick and thin. J.R.'s commentary and conversations about these teams would leave you amused while quickly displaying the depth and breadth of his knowledge.
As a Christian and follower of Jesus Christ, David was a dutiful member of the First Assembly of God. Being quick to volunteer, he served in many ways including as a greeter, an usher, working in the sound booth and helping with Vacation Bible School. He could be counted on for warm greetings and a glowing smile every Sunday and Wednesday. Monday evenings men's Bible Study was a special place of fellowship that he particularly enjoyed. David was a great example of a life of faith, lived publicly and unashamedly.
David is survived by his mother Camille Pond and his sister Allyson Pond of Arkansas City. He is also survived by four aunts, Anna Jane Cherney, Martha Blandy, Linda (husband Kenny) Mayberry, Susan (husband Steve) Abrams and 17 cousins.
David was preceded in death by his father David Pond. He was also preceded in death by Frank & Bessie Pond (grandparents), Wade & Margaret Waldschmidt (grandparents), Lloyd & Ellen Pond (uncle), Richard Blandy (uncle), Sam Waldschmidt (uncle), Landon W. Waldschmidt & David Waldschmidt (uncle).
Memorials have been established for the Cowley County Community College Baseball Team as well as The First Assembly of GOD Church. Services will be held Monday 20, May, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the First Assembly of GOD Church in Arkansas City, Ks., Pastor James Newman will officiate. Arrangements are being handled by Rindt-Erdman Funeral Home & Crematory.