Pamela Ann (McQueen) Pontius

Pamela Pontius, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, at the age of sixty-four on Thursday, March 6, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Edith and Roderick McQueen, and her brothers, Roderick and Rick McQueen. Pamela is survived by her children, Mandy Johnson (Mike Dubay), Jamie Schafer (Darren), and Douglas Thursby (Krista); her grandchildren, Justice, Miguel, Aleister, Emily, Ameliana, Nikolai, Linaea, Nelliel, Makayla, and Thomas; and her great-grandchild, Aries. She also leaves behind her cherished cat, Darlin’. Born and raised in the South Bend/Osceola, Indiana area, Pamela later moved to Michigan with her family, where she became deeply involved in the community. Family meant everything to Pamela. She dedicated herself to caring for her loved ones, whether that meant taking care of them in times of illness, attending her grandchildren’s activities, or enjoying simple moments with her family, such as Goodwill shopping trips or relaxing with her beloved cat. Pamela had a passion for fashion, jewelry, and all things "pretty." She took great pride in looking classy, and her favorites were blush pink, purple, gold, and houndstooth print. A skilled seamstress from a young age, Pamela honed her craft as she grew older, eventually owning her own bridal and formal wear business. She made the wedding dresses for all three of her children and countless Halloween costumes for her grandchildren. Each Christmas, she lovingly made pajamas for her grandchildren and used any extra funds to donate pajamas to Toys 4 Tots. Pamela often referred to her sewing ability as a "God-given talent" and used it to bless her family and others.

Pamela was raised in the Pentecostal faith but later became a devoted Catholic after finding a sense of belonging at Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Ionia. She became a passionate greeter at her parish, always welcoming others with a warm smile and open heart. Her faith was a central part of her life and was truly her identity. Despite facing challenges of her own, Pamela always had a special place in her heart for the less fortunate. She was especially moved by the plight of the homeless and worked tirelessly to help them find shelter, housing, and resources. Through her partnership with Saints Peter and Paul’s Friends of Jesus, she made a difference in the lives of many. Pamela will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but we take comfort in knowing that she is now at home with Jesus, one of the "lucky ones."

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Rev. Thomas Brown at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2025 at SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 434 High St., Ionia. Rite of Committal will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Osceola, Indiana. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Tuesday at the church. A luncheon will follow the Mass in the Apostles Hall. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to SS. Peter and Paul Friends of Jesus, c/o Ionia Ministerial Association, 434 High Street, Ionia, MI 48846 in memory of Pamela. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

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