Lani C. Pontious

Lani C. Pontious, nee Cook, 76, of New Athens, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday September 8, 2025. Lani was born in El Paso, TX to Andrew and Marie (Alvarado) Cook and her parents precede her in death. She was also proceeded in death by her son, Thomas Pontious and her daughter, Kimberly Pontious and her brother, Vance Cook.

Lani grew up in Long Beach, CA. She met the love of her life, Daniel Pontious on June 9, 1970, and he wooed her to the Midwest where they married on October 31, 1970. They then began their family. Lani was a devoted wife and mother and stayed home to raise the children while they were young. Once the children reached their teenage years, Lani entered the workforce focusing on office administration. She would eventually retire from the St. Clair County LIHEAP office.

Lani enjoyed cooking and gardening and especially loved watching the hummingbirds at the many feeders outside her home. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister and dear friend of many.

Left to cherish her memory is her husband, Daniel Pontious; her children: Aaron Pontious and Alicia Pontious (Ian); her sisters: Barbara (David) Onley and Anna (David) Parent; her brother, Andrew (Lavon) Cook; her grandchildren: Staton (Lexy) O’Dell, Ashley Tomlin, Tyler Oliver, Brook (Chris) Hollaway and Ethan Oliver; 9 great-grandchildren in addition to many nieces, nephews, extended family and beloved friends.

Per Lani’s wishes, cremation has taken place. The family will plan a celebration of life at a later date.

Hoffen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.