Mr. Richard Pond Jr.

Richard Bernard Pond Jr. entered into Heaven's Gate on Thursday, April 4, 2024, reuniting with his mother, father, two sisters, niece, and other family members. Richard, as we called him Junior and sometimes June bug, was born in Clifton Forge, Virginia, and moved into the Roanoke Valley in April,1961. Junior was a sight for sore eyes and stubborn as a mule. However, he loved his family and friends and would do anything he could to help when he could. Only the ones that knew him would know the golden heart within his chest. Junior was born on October 29, 1957, in Alleghany County. He was the only son of eight children which gave him special privileges. Growing up in the Roanoke Valley became his final home, yet not his final destination.

Junior was indeed a mama’s boy. He knew that, and sometimes took advantage of it. Losing our father when Junior was only 22 made this earthly life difficult and painful for Junior, yet he managed to carry on. Losing both our mother and a sister in 2012 and a sister in 2024 took a toll on Junior.  He loved having a good time and country western music. He cherished everyone that was a part of his life. His sister Barbara became his caretaker shortly after our mother's passing. After the passing of Barbara, our sister Betty became Junior’s sole caretaker. There was no greater love than the love Junior had for his family, both near and far.
 
Junior was predeceased by his mother Lillie Pond, his father Richard Pond Sr, his sisters Barbara Pond and Nancy Hayslett and many other extended family members. Left behind to honor his memory are his sisters Margaret Pond, Bonnie Divers (Alonzo), and Betty Pond of Roanoke Virginia, his sister Sarah Pond of Hardy, Virginia, and his sister Judy Booker of Rocky Mount, Virginia. He also leaves behind his very special great-great niece and nephew Ava Marie Hollinghead and Javaun Lamar Hollinghead Jr, two nieces Terri Assini and Melissa Kelly that he had a very close bond with and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members. Also mourning Junior’s passing is a very dear friend, Eddie Lang, He was the “brother” that Junior never had. Eddie was a role model for Junior and taught him a lot throughout the years. Junior loved Eddie and his family as if they were his own blood. Also left behind to mourn Junior are life-long friends Wayne Blankenship and Tina Barlow. 

A memorial service will be held in honor of Junior with a date, time, and location TBA .
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3 :5-6

Online condolences may be made at www.lotzfuneralhomeroanoke.com.