L. Wesley Ledford
September 21, 2020
L. Wesley Ledford died September 21, 2020.
Wesley was born on July 5, 1932 in Raleigh, North Carolina, to the late Raymond Broadwell Ledford and Daisy Stell Ledford. He grew up in Raleigh and graduated from Broughton High School, where he excelled at football and track and met his high school sweetheart, Daphne, who later became his wife of 63 years. His athletic talents led to college scholarship offers in both sports, leading him to accept a football scholarship to play end at Wake Forest College. He graduated a Demon Deacon in 1954 and was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity.
Wesley started his career in Raleigh with North Carolina Equipment Company and transferred with the company to Charlotte in 1958. He later formed and ran Ledford Equipment Company for several years prior to being offered an opportunity with Carolina Tractor Company. He would ultimately become the Vice President of Sales and Service until his retirement
Wesley was a kind, optimistic man, who loved shared time with family and friends. An avid outdoorsman, he loved hunting and found great pleasure in exploring the Cape Fear region and Inland Waterway. He and Daphne particularly enjoyed the many days that they spent at Wrightsville Beach. Wesley’s path in life also led him to serve the needs of others. He was a Trinity Pop Warner football coach and past member of North Mecklenburg Optimist Club, serving youth. Wesley and Daphne were members of Providence Baptist Church and former members of Charlotte Country Club where Wesley enjoyed many a day of golf and fellowship.
Wesley is survived by his beloved wife, Daphne; his daughter, Lynn Ledford Brown; his grandson, Wesley Rion (Kinzey) Ledford; and his sister-in-law, Freddye Ledford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Wesley Franklin (Lee) Ledford; his sister, Florine Olive; and his brother, Raymond Bruce Ledford.
Services will be private due to the Covid pandemic. Memorials may be sent to Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region, PO Box 470408, Charlotte, NC 28247.
Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.
Comments
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I enjoyed my time working with Wes - a good man and the best listener I ever knew. Becky and I send our best wishes to Daphne and Lynn.
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Lynn, we were so sorry to hear about your dad. Thinking of you and your family.
Sharon and Larry -
I so loved this man! I cannot tell you Daphne and Lynn how sorry I am and I know Mom will be so sad. Wesley was such a wonderful person and walked me
out to the beach so many times in Wrightsville saying, Where's your tan Debbie? You're outside all the time..you should be tan! He always had a great tan
and a beautiful inner glow. At least he and Harry will be in heaven together with Carol too and they can share wonderful stories together. All my love and prayers
to you in this depressing time. Debra D -
Daphne;
This is John Hood; so sorry to hear about Wes. He hired me at Carolina Cat back in 1980. He was a tremendous mentor and role model for me always encouraging me and
helping me find my way. He always listened to me and felt comfortable discussing any issues. with him . I miss the days we would have breakfast together before work. In your lifetime you meet a few incredible people; Wes was this person for me. He will truly be missed.
Thinking of you and the family in this tough time.
John -
Lynn, thinking of you and your mom and sending heartfelt love and prayers your way. Xo AG
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Grew up with the Ledfords. Went on many Wrightsville family beach trips. Played football and basketball with Lee and always enjoyed our dove hunting adventures with both of our fathers. I am so glad I was able to visit him back in July when my father was in town. He was a great person and will be missed. Take care Daphne and Lynn.
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My thoughts and heart are with you both. Sincerely.
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