Ralph "Choco" Ponce

Ralph “Choco” Ponce

June 3, 1964 – September 10, 2025

With broken hearts, we share the sudden passing of Ralph “Choco” Ponce, 61, on September 10, 2025, in Schenectady, New York. Born on June 3, 1964, in Los Angeles, California, Ralph lived a life full of love, laughter, and music, leaving a lasting impact on everyone blessed to know him.

For more than 40 years, Ralph dedicated himself to his career at McDonald’s, where he not only worked hard but also built countless friendships that became like family. His kindness, loyalty, and humor made him unforgettable to coworkers and customers alike.

Ralph had a heart larger than life. His love for music was a reflection of his soul—he could often be found playing the harmonica, guitar, or piano, filling any space with joy and rhythm. He was known for his quick wit, his ability to make anyone laugh, and the way he lit up every room he walked into. To family and friends, he wasn’t just the life of the party—he was the life of their hearts.

Ralph was a devoted son to his mother, Angie Compton, and father, George Ponce, and he held close the memory of his stepfather, Dean Compton, and infant brother, George Ponce. He was a loving brother to Debra Rodriguez (Lupe), Robert Ponce (Gloria), Georgeanna Navarette, Sandra Tovar (Raul), and John Ponce. His love for his family ran deep and wide, stretching across generations.

He leaves behind a proud and cherished legacy through his children: Sarah Jones; Angelina Ponce (Scottie Holcombe); John Robert Ponce (Falisha Ali); stepdaughter, Cailyn Tilley; and daughter-in-law, Christina Tilley. Ralph’s greatest joy was being “Papa” to his grandchildren—Jordyn Sheffield, Jayden Jones, Salice Holcombe, Scottie Holcombe, Brayden Dorsey, and Aaliyah Holcombe—each of whom he adored beyond measure. He is also remembered with love by his former wife, Beth Ponce.

Ralph was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews and a loyal friend whose generosity and faith in God touched countless lives. His quiet strength, devotion to family, and love for laughter and music will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Ralph’s life on September 28, 2025, at Cannon Funeral Home, 2020 Central Avenue. A Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 1:00 PM.

Though his time with us was cut far too short, Ralph “Choco” Ponce leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and music that will continue to inspire and comfort us all.