Ronda Ann Pondelick, age 60, unexpectedly passed away surrounded by loved ones, while on her life long dream vacation in Florida, Bahamas and a cruise. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love. She was born on January 6, 1965, in Sycamore, Illinois, to Mary Ann Pondelick (Hanson) and Ronald Lawrence Pondelick. A proud graduate of Sycamore High School (Class of 1983), where she obtained her cosmetology license. 

Ronda later attended Heartland Community College, taking early childhood education classes. Throughout her life, Ronda dedicated herself to roles rooted in service and community - working as a Head Start teacher, a cook with Illinois State University Dining, a bus driver, and spending the last decade at Afni, where she built meaningful connections and left a lasting impact.

Ronda had a generous, giving heart and lived her faith proudly as a steadfast Christian. She loved Coca-Cola, enjoyed bingo, arts and crafts, cooking, and baking, and she especially adored holidays - always planning, decorating, and creating joy for others.

Every year, she looked forward to attending the Sweet Corn Circus/Festival in Uptown Normal, one of her favorite traditions. She was also a loyal supporter of stock car racing at the Sycamore Speedway and a proud fan of Hernandez Racing.

Of everything in Ronda’s life, her children and granddaughter were her world. She loved them fiercely and celebrated every moment she shared with them.

Ronda’s spirit, kindness, and unwavering love will continue to live on in the many lives she touched. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Ronda is preceded in death by her maternal grandmother Anna Hanson (Medernach), maternal grandfather William Hanson, paternal grandmother Frances Kinney, paternal grandfather Anton Pondelick Jr., her cousin Renee Medernach, and her best friend, Cindy Campuzano-McCall. All special people she deeply loved and who now welcome her home. She was also greeted in heaven by her loyal dog Snoopy, who remained by her side in spirit.

Ronda is survived by her mother Mary Ann Pondelick (Hanson) and father Ronald L. Pondelick. brother Robert Pondelick (Barbara Pondelick); her children, daughter Ashley Wilson (Nick Humbles) and son Damaree Wilson whom she lovingly adopted and cherished as her own; her beloved granddaughter, Coralie Farney; her two nephews, niece, and a host of great nephews, great nieces and others who considered her a sister and aunt in love, not just in blood.

In honor of her creativity and giving spirit, the family will be hosting a craft sale in remembrance of Ronda. Her legacy of kindness will also live on through the annual backpack and school supply giveaway each fall, continuing her tradition of helping others.

Ronda’s warmth, generosity, and unwavering love will forever shine in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. She will be profoundly missed.

Memorial services will be Tuesday, Jan 6, 2026, from 2 p.m., with a re-pass meal to begin around 3 p.m. Later this spring will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, 302 East Miller Street Bloomington, IL 61701. We the family, deeply appreciate all the love, prayers, and support during this time.

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