James R. "Jim" Ponting

James R. “Jim” Ponting, 88, of Elyria, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 at Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake. Jim was born on April 15, 1938 in Cleveland, Ohio to parents Ralph and Helen (nee: Harbaugh).

Jim was a proud graduate of Midview High School, Class of 1957, where he met his high school sweetheart, Judy (nee: White), who would become his beloved wife and lifelong partner. Throughout his career, Jim served as a business agent for the Retail Clerks Union, Local 880, where he dedicated himself to representing and supporting working people. His faith was an important part of his life, and he was a devoted member of North Eaton Christian Church, where he faithfully served as an elder and shared his love of music by singing in the church choir. Jim found great joy in the simple pleasures of life, especially working in his yard, tending to his garden, and enjoying a round of golf. Above all, his greatest happiness came from his family. He cherished the time spent with those he loved, and his devotion, kindness, and steady presence will be remembered by all who knew him. Jim leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, love, and treasured memories that will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Survivors include his daughters Rebecca (Michael) Moran, Laurie (Bill) Adkins, Deborah (Reggie) Blackburn; grandchildren, James (Ashley) Moran, Jonathan (Laura) Moran, Sarah (Jacob) Moore, Lonna Kay (Jim) Christian, Joe Adkins, Josh Adkins; great-grandchildren, Jordyn and Sawyer, Cailin and Quinn, Blake, Shai’enne and Marley; sister-in-law, Luci Vernadakis. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Reverend Judith Ponting; siblings, Gladys Salisbury, Ralph “Bud” Ponting, Harry Ponting Sr., Donald Ponting, Thomas Ponting; brother-in-law, Richard White.

Family will receive guests on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. at North Eaton Christian Church 35895 Royalton Road in Grafton, Ohio. Reverend Heather Hicks will officiate. Burial will immediately follow at Butternut Ridge Cemetery in Eaton Township. Memorial contributions in Jim’s name can be sent to the church or Reserve Care c/o Ames Family Hospice House in Westlake.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.