Marla Jean Pontnack

Marla Jean Pontnack, 80, of Freeport, Illinois passed on Monday, September 8, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones in Phoenix, Arizona. Born August 11, 1945, in Olney,IL. Marla was the beloved daughter of Bernell and Venita Clagg. She was joined in marriage to Rick Pontnack on February 14, 1994. He survives. In addition to her husband, Rick, Marla's family includes three daughters, Shaila Lewis of Ursa, IL (m. Shawn), Gabrielle Morse of Scottsdale, AZ (m. Donald), and Kyra Pontnack of Machesney Park, IL (fiance Anthony); two sons, Eric Archer (m. Nicole) and Kip Pontnack (m. Briana), both of Freeport, IL; two step daughters, Jen Hartog of Freeport, IL (m. Brad) and Brandy Savory of Redding, CA (m. Jeremy), two step sons, Nick Pontnack of Freeport, IL (m. Ariel) and Jared Pontnack of Freeport, IL; 23 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; one brother, Ray Clagg of Shelbyville,IL; one sister, Gaila Horack of O'Fallon, MO and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.
Marla was an adored wife, sister, mother, grandmother, and friend. She spent her life loving her family, friends, and nature. She had a way with all animals and enjoyed rescuing baby raccoons, squirrels, and any stray she came across. She taught each of us to treasure the little things in life including Elvis music, sketching, making homemade ice cream, and dancing with her grandchildren.
Marla earned the sweet name of "Nanny" and she touched each of us with so much love and wit. She spent quality time with each grandchild so that they would feel like the most important person in the world. She so lovingly expressed how proud she was of each grandchild. "Nanny" spent the last year enjoying life in the Arizona sunshine and was lovingly cared for by her daughter, Gabrielle, and family. She delighted in every activity she was involved in, especially listening to beautiful piano melodies, played by her grandson, Elias. She had a special bond with her 6-year-old grandson, Gionni, that was like no other. They delighted in dancing, eating chocolate and holding hands. The two were inseparable and Gionni will forever hold his Nanny's love and spirit for all to witness.
Marla kept us all on our toes with funny one liners and witty responses that would be sure to make you break out in laughter. If you were blessed to have met her, you would know her heart. She always told people how "beautiful or handsome" they were, and made sure to remind us how much she loved each of us. Marla's legacy lives on in the laughter she sparked, the compassion she inspired, and the moments of love she sprinkled over everyone. To know her was to feel cherished and all that knew her, are truly blessed.
Marla was preceded in death by her parents, sister-in-law Chris Clagg and infant nephew Alex Horack.
The family will gather for a Celebration of Life in October. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Marla are suggested to the Quincy Humane Society, Quincy, IL.