James Donald Ledbetter, known by family and friends as Don, 72, of Marietta, Georgia, passed away on Thursday August 6th, 2020.

He painted his life with an unlimited palette of colors, enriching the lives of those around him with his stories, wisdom, kindness, generosity and an unprejudiced acceptance of everyone with whom he shared his magnificent life.

Don was born March 25th, 1948 in Chamblee, Georgia and remained a Georgia native all his life. His passions and hobbies included many diverse interests. He loved working with his hands, gardening, woodworking, building birdhouses and fixing and repairing things. He was an ardent hunter and fisherman and truly loved being outdoors; his heart was and still is centered in nature. He had a great love of music, photography, racing and golf. He was the true definition of a modern man.

Don served for the United States Armed Forces under the Navy during the Vietnam War from November 1966 until November 1970. He was promoted from Aviation Machinist's Mate (Reciprocating Engine Mechanic) Airman Apprentice to Airman and eventually to Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the USS Oriskany, better known to its crew members as the "Mighty O". For his service he earned a Purple Heart. He remained in the Naval Reserve from November 1970 until July 1972 with an honorable discharge. After his time in the military Don went on to have a long career working as a sales person in HVAC and Refrigeration where he created long lasting relationships with his customers, most recently working alongside a dedicated team at Ed's Supply in Canton, Georgia.

Don is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Sally Ledbetter; daughters, Nikki Ledbetter, Lisa Hughes (and husband Chris Hughes), Laura Comerford (and husband Brian Sakonchick); sister Amy Ledbetter Pierce; grandchildren, Tyler Hughes, Dori Mcfry, James Sakonchick, and countless other friends and family.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, James Dalton Ledbetter and Lydia Jane Ford, and after the death of his mother, a loving step-mother Peggy Joyce Ellison; brother Larry Ledbetter.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Saturday August 15th, 2020 from 6:00PM to 8:00PM at Marietta Funeral Home. All guests will be required to wear a mask inside the building.

A private service will be held on Sunday August 16th, 2020 and will be limited to family only.

Due to the current health crisis we understand people may feel more comfortable expressing their condolences through the online guestbook.

The family encourages people to share their stories and memories at www.mariettafuneralhome.org

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the following organizations which were near and dear to Don's heart:

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

choagiving@choa.org

New Beginnings Ministry

1258 Greater Hope Road

Martin, Georgia 30557

Sharon@newbeginninginc.net

706-356-2113