Clarence Ledbetter's Obituary
Clarence Winford Ledbetter was born on August 29, 1932, in Houston, Texas, to Robert and Eva Ledbetter. The youngest of twelve children, he was raised in a large, close-knit family that shaped the values of faith, humility, and devotion he carried throughout his life.
Clarence proudly served his country in the United States Navy, spending four years aboard the USS Iowa during the Korean War. After returning home to Texas, he married the love of his life, Dolores Ann Baugh, on December 22, 1957. Together they shared nearly 68 years of marriage, 2 children, Judith and Craig, 4 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren, building a life grounded in love, loyalty, and family.
A talented and well-loved Sebring hair stylist, Clarence was known for his steady presence, kind heart, humour and the way he made everyone feel welcome in his chair. Generations of customers and friends sat in his barber chair. He was a dedicated member of South Main Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a Senior Deacon, and he was a proud Master Mason.
Clarence enjoyed golf and spent many years playing weekly with a close-knit group of friends. He was a big Astro's fan and is known to be the only person to have a baseball signed by all Astro's owners.
He also found great joy in the Christmas season. For years, he delighted neighbors and friends by winning 1st place for Christmas lights in the Tanglewilde neighborhood—an annual tradition that became a cherished part of the community and a source of pride for Clarence.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Dee, just 53 days prior to his passing, as well as by his parents and his eleven siblings.
Clarence is survived by his children, Judith Johnston and her husband Emery, and Craig Ledbetter and his wife Felicia. He leaves behind four grandchildren—Laura Mabry Murdock, Melanie Mabry Loyd, Michael Mabry, and Lindsey Ledbetter—and seven great-grandchildren who brought tremendous joy to his later years: Noah Murdock, Elijah Murdock, Georgia Bedre, Micah Murdock, Lola Loyd, Estelle Mabry, and Nicholas Mabry.
Clarence will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his gentle spirit, his deep faith, and the joy he brought to every Christmas season. His passing marks the end of an era for many but his legacy lives on in the generations who adored him.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with a Christian burial at 11:00 a.m. All services will take place at SouthPark Funeral Home in Pearland, Texas. Following the burial, the family invites all to join in celebrating Clarence’s life at a luncheon and reception at Iguana Ranas, located at 2536 South Grand Blvd., Pearland, TX 77581.
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