Gilbert Ledford

An era has passed.

We say goodbye to Gilbert Stephens Ledford -- a man for all seasons, for all peoples, and for all needs.

He began his public service as one of the original CCC workers during the depression as a teen – planting trees and caring for public spaces. His skill and natural talent for care was rooted in his family. He was the second of five boys born to a farming family. His role in the family was that of helper to both father and mother. He learned to cook, cultivate both vegetables and flowers, and to fish with uncanny skill- just like his mother, a renowned angler in her own right.

His next step into the wider world was to join the Air Force as a private first class. He traveled over much of Europe making friends and learning an appreciation of other cultures. He brought his newfound knowledge and openness back home where he joined the Air National Guard based in Dobbins Air Force Base.

Now a husband and father to four children, he introduced them to the joys of husbandry:  caring for an assortment of livestock, including cows, chickens, rabbits, along with an ever-changing population of stray dogs and cats as well as a pet crow.

Gilbert’s active attendance at Sandy Plains Baptist Church combined the stewardship of his faith with his stewardship of the land he loved. He manifested this by his actions—being a person who could be counted on to cut the cemetery grass, to take food to elderly members, to help paint scuffed walls, and to bring homegrown roses to grace the church altar.

His final years were spent at home with family and close friends. He often treated them to Southern foods- fresh fried fish, homemade hushpuppies, and hand-cranked ice cream. His days were most often spent as a caregiver and daily companion to his mother until her death in 2006. He himself passed away at Kennestone  Hospital on November 19, 2017.

He is survived by his four children: Beryl Schaefer (Michael), Maria Struder (Steven), Warren Ledford (Carol), and Daniel Ledford; three brothers, four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

His family will be receiving friends 12pm to 2pm on Wednesday November 22nd, 2017 at Medford-Peden Funeral Home, followed by a funeral service at 2pm.  A committal service will be held at Georgia National Cemetery at 9:30am November 24th, 2017.  Medford-Peden Funeral Home, Marietta, Georgia is in charge of arrangements. 770-427-8447

 Service Information