Donald G. Pons

On August 18, 2023, Donald G. Pons (Don), 84, of Williamsburg, VA, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Don was born on October 11, 1938 in Brooklyn, NY to Muriel (Schworm) Pons and Colonel Philip E. Pons.

At an early age, Don and his family transferred to Ft. Eustis, VA where he attended Saint Vincent dePaul Catholic School in Newport News, VA. After high school graduation, Don attended the College of William and Mary and spent his evenings and weekends waiting tables at the King’s Arms Tavern and night clerking at the Williamsburg Inn. Don earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the College of William and Mary and received his Regular Army commission at a ROTC ceremony the same day in 1961, wearing his father’s 2nd Lt. bars.

Following basic training and Jump School, his first assignment was to Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. It was there he met his wife, Frances (Fran) Reeder and they were married October 1, 1963 in Calgary, Canada. After overseas tours in Thailand and Vietnam he resigned his commission and resumed his career in the hospitality industry in Williamsburg, VA. Having his own management company, Don managed several Holiday Inns, the Hospitality House, the 1776 and eventually, his own establishment, Quarterpath Inn.

He enjoyed his service to the community and was honored to serve on the City of Williamsburg’s School Board, Planning Commission and Social Services Board. Additionally, he was a past president of the Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and the Williamsburg Hotel Motel Association, which he worked to establish in 1976.

Later in life Donald enjoyed traveling with his wife and other dear friends. He and Fran enjoyed sailing their 31 foot Irwin around the York River and Chesapeake Bay. Most especially, Don enjoyed spending time with his family and listening to music.

Donald was predeceased by his parents, brother, Richard Pons and sister, Patricia Bannach. He is survived by his wife Frances, his sons David G. Pons and Douglas G. Pons (Melissa), granddaughters, Madison and Meredith of Williamsburg, his daughters Audra McGrath (Brian), grandchildren, Gwyneth, Cadence and Ryan of Lovettsville and Heather Sherry (Daniel) of Mechanicsville. Also surviving is his brother Philip E. Pons, Jr. of Hampton and his sister, Marguerite Pons of Marietta, GA.

A graveside service with military honors will take place at 1:00 PM on Sunday, August 27th at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Following the service, the family will receive friends at the Williamsburg Manor, 600 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Red Cross.