Ray James Ledbetter was born to Naomi Ledbetter in Winston-Salem, North Carolina on March 23,1947. He was born the fourth child of eleven.

Ray attended Kimberly Park School and Paisley High School, graduating in the class of 1966. He continued his education at Forsyth Technical Institute in Architectural Drafting and Winsalem College to earn credits in Business. In 1968 Ray was drafted into service for the United States Army where he reached the rank of Sargent. Having been honorably discharged, Ray was the first black hired at Fairchild/Heller Industries in the Space and Electronics department. Later Ray became the first black electrician and subsequently, the first black to supervise engineering at R J Reynolds Archer. Simultaneously, Ray used his business acumen to become an entrepreneur having owned Premier Charter Bus and Tiffany Limo Service.

Ray Ledbetter was a devoted servant to his church and community, best known for his generosity and unwavering commitment to others. Ray Ledbetter played a key role in building and maintaining the church, ensuring it was a true place of worship and service. . He provided a hot breakfast every Sunday for the Sunday school, fostering fellowship and joy until the COVID-19 pandemic. He also supported church ministries and events, often working quietly behind the scenes to ensure their success.

Ray's passion of recent years was giving back to his community through the Paisley Alumni Association. In most recent years, as president of the Paisley Alumni Association, he proudly partnered with his classmate to build his vision, the Legacy Wall and Mascot, to preserve their history.

Ray's most cherished moments were those spent with his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, as well as preparing meals for his family and friends.

With his loved ones gathered closely around him, Ray James Ledbetter transitioned home peacefully on Tuesday evening, December 23, 2025. He was preceded in death by his devoted mother, his sisters Barbara Herring and Ann Hunt, his brothers Jerry and Oscar Ledbetter, and his grandchildren Elissa Ray'lynn McCall-Ledbetter and Rayquan D'norris Mcall Jr. Ledbetter.

Cherishing his memory are his children: Donna Rae Ledbetter Gaddy, Jeffrey Ledbetter, and Cristan (Regina) Brown. He leaves behind four grandchildren: Taylor Ledbetter, Courtney Gaddy, Nicholas Gaddy, and Cristan Brown Jr.. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Kaylee Ledbetter, Caleb Mock, Ryann Stephens, and Layla Stephens.

He is also survived by his siblings: Jacqueline Spencer, Miriam (David) Wagner, Tyrone (Derreka) Ledbetter, Linda Fox, Bernadette (Vaughn) Booker, and Donna (Calvin) Hendrickson. Brothers in law, Richard Herring, Robert Hunt and sisters in law Lynette Ledbetter and Sallie Ledbetter. As well as a host of special and proud nieces and nephews.

Ray's legacy is one of selfless service, steadfast faith, and deep love for his family and all whose lives he touched. Ray's life will be remembered as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose kindness touched all who knew him.

Funeral service for Mr. Ledbetter will be held at 12:00 PM, Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at St. John CME Church. The family will greet friends from 11:00 AM until the funeral hour. Interment will be in the New Evergreen Cemetery.

For a copy of funeral program click here