On January 2, 2017 George D. Pond Jr. passed away peacefully with his family just two days before his 92nd birthday. Born to Ida Mae and George D. Pond, Sr. in Sedley, Virginia, he is predeceased by his wife Betty Pond and three sisters. He is survived by his daughter, Bettina Pond Kusiak and husband John of Roanoke, VA, sons George Pond and wife Dianne of Windsor, VA and David Pond and wife Michelle of Ringgold, GA. He leaves six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren and one sister.
George received a Purple Heart serving in the Navy during World War II on PT Boat 191 in the Philippines and served again in the Korean Conflict. He returned to Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, Machinist Shop 38 before retirement from the Naval Air and Engineering Center as an Aeronautical Shipboard Representative. Following his retirement at age 55, George and Betty enjoyed their motor home to the fullest with winters in Florida, trips to national parks and journeys to all the states including Hawaii and Alaska. They lived a wonderful and full life together and spoke of so much beauty across these United States.
A devoted Catholic, he first attended Holy Angels Church and then a long standing member of St. Paul's as a President on the Nocturnal Adoration Society, faithfully devoting many hours of prayer. George and Betty then delivered Meals on Wheels for over 20 years. He was a member of the local NARFE organization.
Visitation will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Thursday, January 12 at Foster Funeral Home, Portsmouth. A Celebration of Life Mass will be held at St. Paul Catholic Church, Portsmouth at 11:00 a.m. Friday, January 13, 2017, and entombment with U.S. Navy Honors following at Meadowbrook Memorial Gardens, Suffolk. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in his honor to the Oasis Soup Kitchen, 800 Williamsburg Avenue, Portsmouth, VA 23704. Condolences may be registered at BWFosterFuneralHome.com. The family is so grateful to those who offered prayers and support during his illness. He was a true role model as a husband, dad, PapPap, neighbor and friend to many. Dad was called to be with Mom for his birthday and we are sure it was a blessed and grand celebration. Dad, You and Mom are in our hearts forever.