John Alden Ledbetter

John Alden Ledbetter, 86, passed away on Monday April 25, 2011 at 1:55 A.M. at the Astoria Health & Rehabilitation Center in Winter Haven, Florida. John was born January 30, 1925 in East St. Louis the son of A.K. & Alice (Daniels) Ledbetter. He married Ada Pauline Allen on August 26, 1948 in Murphysboro and together they shared over 51 years of marriage until her death on October 16, 1999. He married Loretta Ott on October 12, 2002 in Marion and she survives in Winter Haven. He proudly served his country during WWII participating in the Battle of the Buldge in the 102nd infantry division. He was decorated with the Bronze Star medal and was a member of the 825th Replacement Company US Army Reserve Unit in Marion. He retired from the military after serving for 21 years. John worked for Marion Unit #2 and retired after 35 years. He served as Principal at Longfellow school for 32 years. He was one of the founding members of the Illinois Principals Association. Lifetime member of the 1st Presbyterian Church, an ordained elder and served as clerk of session. This was his claim to fame; he wanted to be remembered as a great drummer, playing in many orchestras, dance bands. He liked to pattern himself after Gene Krupa. Survivors include; Wife Loretta Ott Ledbetter of Winter Haven, Florida Son Robert E. Ledbetter and wife Carolyn of Carbondale Daughter Marcia ODell of Helena, MT Grandsons; Jeffrey Ledbetter Robert Ledbetter Mitchell ODell Matthew ODell Marcus ODell Seven Great Grandchildren Step-children; Carla Ott of Davenport, Florida Crystal Peterson of Davenport, Florida Heather Reich of Winter Haven, Florida Brother Don Ledbetter and wife Carole Ledbetter of Ottawa, Illinois Sister Rosanna Ledbetter of San Antonia, Texas Preceded Parents, First wife Pauline, Son-in-law Michael ODell, Sister Lois Nordquist and Brother William Ledbetter. Funeral services will be Friday, April 29, 2011 at 10 A.M. at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home with Rev. Wade Halva and Rev. Dan Whitfield officiating. Burial will follow in Mounds National Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 5 8 P.M. at the funeral home. For those who prefer memorials may be made to the 1st Presbyterian Church. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, IL 62959.