Fred Lucellus Leadbetter Sr.

Fred was born on September 1, 1932, in Lewiston, Maine, to Lucille Leadbetter Ames (Dolbier) and George Elwood Leadbetter. He grew up in Mexico, Maine and spent summers at camp on Howard Pond in Andover, Maine with his brother George (Diddy) Leadbetter and his friend Pete (Petey) Smith.

Fred married Lillian J. Nickerson on October 25, 1952. They had six children together: Leslie L Belanger of Rockland, Lisa L. Leadbetter (deceased), Fred L. Leadbetter Jr. of Poland, Gregory A. Leadbetter of Buckfield, Donald Q. Leadbetter (deceased) and Kirk A. Leadbetter of Turner. He is survived by 6 grandchildren: Dany Belanger Lind, Zephram Belanger, Tabitha Leadbetter, Kimberly Leadbetter Shields, Alex Leadbetter and Ian Leadbetter. He is also survived by great grandchildren Noah Lind, Eli Lind, Aiden Lind, Silas Shields and Josie Shields. He was predeceased by his brother George Leadbetter and grandson Gabriel Leadbetter.

Fred graduated from Mexico High in 1950 and attended courses at Peabody University. He joined the Maine Army National Guard after high school. He went on active duty in July 1960 and his unit was activated during the Cuban Missile Crisis, He remained on active duty through May of 1971. He earned his Airborne qualification at Ft Benning and attended Officer Candidate School earning his commission as an Armor Officer. His assignments took him to West Germany, Korea, and Viet Nam, in addition to assignments within the United States. After the military, Fred was a carpenter with Langelier Construction and transitioned to Plans and Training Officer at the Oxford County Emergency Preparedness office. He then became the Plans and Training Officer for the Maine State Emergency Preparedness Office. He was very involved during the Maine floods of 1987.

Fred was a long time member of the Masonic Lodge in Turner, Maine, becoming a Mason in 1954 He was respected by colleagues. Fred believed in giving back to his community, volunteering with American Red Cross, and inspiring others to do the same.

Fred enjoyed golfing at the Turner Highlands for many years, especially after his retirement. He also was an avid woodworker making many bowls, jelly cabinets, bread boxes and a large desk.

Fred’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and generosity. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His memory will live in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of Fred’s life will be held on May 2, 2026, at Turner Masonic Hall at 10:00 A.M, followed by burial at Gracelawn Memorial Park, Auburn, Maine. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his honor to: The Alan-Brandon Coffin Memorial Scholarship Fund 232 Main Street Suite 2, South Paris, Maine 04281 or on the Facebook page for the above scholarship fund.