Richard William "Dick" Ledbetter

Richard William "Dick" Ledbetter was born in Wichita, KS, the son of Wayne Mathias and Betty Lou (Hull) Ledbetter. After graduating from High School in 1966, Richard proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army on June 19, 1968. He served in the 55th U.S. Army Band in Alabama, before being deployed to Vietnam where he was a Radio Operator and Motor Transport Operator in the 101st Airborne, and then serving in the 29th Army Band in Okinawa, Japan. During his military service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service and Campaign Medal, along with the Bronze Star for his dedication and courage. He received an honorable discharge on June 12, 1971. His legacy of military service continued through his sons, Brandon and Jay, following in his father's footsteps by serving in the United States Air Force.

Throughout his life, Richard embraced every opportunity to learn and master new skills. Self-taught, he built computers and designed websites long before technology became commonplace. He spent many years driving semi-trucks before embracing his true passion for training and showing Paso Fino horses. Richard found happiness in the outdoors among the horses and in life's simple pleasures. As a young man, he loved hunting and fishing. He also enjoyed flying airplanes, taking motorcycle rides on the open road, and spending time pursuing the hobbies that brought him fulfillment. He played several instruments, including the guitar, and had a remarkable gift for singing and songwriting. One of his most cherished musical moments was performing a song to his beloved wife at their wedding that he wrote. In 1994, Richard married Cathleen “Cathy” Starbuck, building a life of love, laughter, and family. He was a proud father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He treasured any time spent with them.

On July 13, 2026, Richard passed from this life in Tulsa, OK at the age of 77 years old. Richard will be remembered for his patriotism, creativity, intelligence, musical talent, and willingness to take on any challenge. Above all, he will be remembered for the love he shared with his family and friends, whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and generous heart.

He leaves behind his beloved wife of 32 years, Cathy Starbuck Ledbetter of the home in Midway, TX, his sons, Russell and Curtis Ledbetter, also of the home, Jay White currently stationed in Omaha, NE, Brandon Culpan of Pensacola, FL, Skip Ledbetter of Texas, along with his daughters, Amie Shird of Madisonville, TX, Charity Ledbetter of Greenfield Center, NY, and Shanda DeLuna of Georgia. He is also survived by his brothers, Tim Ledbetter, Rocky Ledbetter, and Tom Ledbetter, all of Tahlequah, OK, as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many family and friends who will forever cherish his memory.