Dennis M. Ponder, age 78, of Leitchfield, KY passed away Monday, (August 10, 2026) at his home.

He was born on October 26, 1947, in Hardinsburg, IN, the son of the late Leonard Ponder and Gayle Jones Ponder .

Dennis retired from Bel Cheese after a distinguished career as the Foreign Purchasing Manager. He was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, serving honorably during the Vietnam Era. During his military service, he spent eight months deployed in the Mediterranean aboard the aircraft carrier USS Forrestal, where he served as a signalman. He was also a member of AQHA.

He enjoyed spending his time golfing, fishing and following a variety of sports, especially UK Basketball. Above all, he treasured time spent with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Thompson Ponder of 39 years; one son, Jacob Young (Erin) of Shepherdsville; one daughter, Kati Mummaneni (Sunny) of Atlanta, GA; grandchildren, Rhett, Cole, and Penelope Young and Peerce and Larrya Abner; mother and father-in-law, Everett and Pat Thompson; two nieces, Sarah Stump (Chris) of Louisville, KY and Julie Taylor Wilson; two nephews, Eric Taylor (Kristy) and Aaron Taylor (Moira); an honorary daughter, Jennifer Robinson; and a special dog, Rip.

Other than his parents, he was preceded in death by his two sisters, Anita Melchior and Janice Taylor ; one brother-in-law, Jimmy Thompson; one nephew, Tony Taylor.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation was chosen.