Jesse A. (Buddy) Ledford

Jesse A. (Buddy) Ledford, 90, of Ringgold, Georgia passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

A native of Dalton, Buddy was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Armetta Gay Ledford. His siblings, Speedy (Peggy) Ledford, Dot (Gene) Segars, Lottie (JC) Caylor, Jeanette (Billy) Croy and his faithful, beloved feline companion, Jax.

Following his retirement, after over 30 years with Collins & Aikman, Buddy enjoyed time with family and friends, fishing, gardening, and tinkering with anything mechanical. His love and sense of humor will be greatly missed.

Surviving are his wife of over 55 years, Frances Bennett Ledford and his children, Kaye Webster, Brian (Sheila) Ledford, Charles (Sonja) Nicholson and Kevin Ledford. Also surviving are his grandchildren, Heather (Chad) Melton, Cole (Joanie) Webster, Kenny Nicholson, Kellie Nicholson, Alexis (Steve) Eaker, and Katlin (Drew) Hilliard; great-grandchildren, Hadleigh and Aikley Cronic; special “adopted” daughter, Tawana Thornton; numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers who so lovingly cared for Buddy in his final days. Especially, family friend, Heather Boles. The many friends and neighbors in The Highlands and Buddy’s church family at Crosspointe Church in Ringgold, where he was a member, for all the love, prayers, and support.

Funeral services will be held at 1 PM on Saturday in the Chapel of Love Funeral Home with Pastor Danny Singleton officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service on Saturday from 11 AM until 1 PM. Buddy will be laid to rest in Whitfield Memorial Gardens.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorials may be made to The Kidney Foundation of Chattanooga or to Crosspointe Church Ringgold.

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