Samari James Ponder

Samari James Ponder was born Feb. 7, 2001 in Erie, PA. However, he spent the past 15 years as a resident of Frederick, MD. Samari was a fighter; however, he passed away in his home on Monday, June 29, 2020.

Samari was a strong, joyful young man with a sense of humor and an infectious smile. He was a student at Rock Creek School, where he was surrounded by loved ones. He loved interacting with people, especially his family. His favorite color was yellow and his favorite football team was the Pittsburgh Steelers. Samari was well known for his pinwheels as he loved holding onto them and watching them spin. He enjoyed toys that light up, playing music, watching TV (Spongebob), watching his disco ball, playing with his V-tech apple toy, playing "Help Kidz Learn" on his computer, walking outside, and blowing bubbles. Samari loved spending time with his niece, Jordynn Dawson, with whom he had a special bond.

Samari is survived by his: mother, Melissa Ponder (Frederick, MD); sister, Savonna Ponder (Frederick, MD); brother, Terence Ponder, Jr. (Frederick, MD); sister, Breanne Ponder-Drew (Erie, PA); and brother, Trevon Ponder (Erie, PA). Samari was preceded in death by his: father, Terence Ponder Sr; grandmothers, Anna Bolash Wisniewski and Laverne Copeland Ponder; grandfathers, Stanley Wisniewski and Willie Larkins; and great grandmother, Alice Voorhis Bolash (all of Erie, PA).

Samari will be laid to rest next to his grandmother, Anna Wisniewski, with a private service on Wed. July 8, 2020 (time to be determined) at Laurel Hill Cemetery located at 4523 Love Rd. Erie, PA 16506. Flowers and donations may be sent to 2119 Paxton Terrace, Frederick, MD 21702.