Leona Ponish

Leona was a woman well ahead of her time. Born in 1927, in Kenedy, Texas, she graduated from Southern Methodist University with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, at a time when few women were studying in the scientific fields in college. When no company would hire a female chemist, she worked as a secretary for Dow Chemical until marrying Robert Drouet in 1951. She lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, for many years, raising two children. Leona and Bob celebrated 55 years of marriage. After Robert’s death, she later married her childhood friend, Keith Ponish, and lived with him in Corpus Christi, Texas. She eventually moved to Birmingham, Alabama, to be closer to family.

In addition to her great love for her large, extended family, Leona enjoyed spending time in her garden, playing and watching tennis, and traveling. She spent many years as an active member of the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority, including in national and international leadership positions.

Leona is survived by her son, Cliff Drouet (and spouse Myrtie) and Suzanne Drouet (and spouse Mark Foley); her sister, Bettye Melton; 9 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and 9 nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her spouses, Robert Drouet and Keith Ponish; her sisters, Sue McKee and Anne Holcomb; and her brother, Jack Davis.

The family wishes to express its immense gratitude to Alabama Hospice of Birmingham, for the kindness and professionalism shown by its employees, especially the many nurses and aides who helped Leona. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a hospice organization or a favorite charity.

A funeral service will be in the Sanctuary at the Cathedral Church of the Advent in downtown Birmingham, on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. The Advent will welcome guests and family at 1:15 with coffee before the service.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.ridoutsvalleychapel.com for the Ponish family.