Jerry Ray Ledford, 76, passed away on Saturday June 27th, one day short of his 77th birthday. He was born June 28th, 1949, in Macon County, son of Sherman Hall Ledford and Anna Katherine Smith. “Matty,” as all who knew him called him was truly “one of a kind.”

His early life was defined by is service in the United States Navy, at the age of 17 he convinced his mother to sign his enlistment papers. From 1966-1969 he served honorably aboard the USS Ariskini and USS Repose 2 well renowned us naval medical ships. Aboard the USS Repose he served as a small boat coxswain that was responsible for the safety and transport of us casualties to and from the shores of Vietnam and back to the safety of the ship. It was during this period of service he showed great courage and the ability to over come hardships that would define the rest of his life. He always spoke of the great challenges and difficulties he faced during these times. He also loved to talk about the adventures only a few of us were so fortunate to hear about. At the conclusion of his military service he had been awarded The National Defense Service Medal, The Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Bronze Stars, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. His service to our great nation was something he took pride in until the end of his days.

The next chapter of his life he went on to become a skilled laborer and salesman. His success in this next chapter can be attributed to his natural gift of charisma and unwavering persistence. He was known to all for his unparalleled personality and keen sense of humor. His free time was spent in the presence of smoky pool halls, quiet creek banks and under the hoods of old hot rods.

Of all the success he found throughout his life his greatest achievement according to him was being called “Dad and Papaw.” He left his family with no shortage of stories and memories to remember him by. His 2 grandsons and great granddaughter brought out his best qualities. From the beginning, making an impact by coaching T ball to teaching them fly fishing. He filled his grandsons childhoods with memories of fishing, introducing them to a love for cars, and loafing around in his truck. As a veteran he was filled with pride when both his grandsons enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.

In addition to his parents, he was proceeded in death by his sister Shirley Davis and his best friend Charlie Dowdle. “Matty” is survived by one daughter, Natasha Ledford Crawford (Luke Crawford) of Franklin, NC. Two grandsons, Tucker Raby (Faith Raby) & Grace Raby (great granddaughter), Silas Raby (Madison Raby), and a sister Linda McCollum. He had many friends that touched his life in different ways; Luke Crawford, Doug, Eddie, Prelo, Denny, Shane W, and Gage who he mentioned. He is also survived by his ex-wife Judy Murphy Silverstein & David Silverstein. His family is comforted in knowing that he is awaiting them with our Lord in heaven.

His family would like to recognize the impeccable service of the Valor hospice team at the Charles George VA Medical Center. Their support, care, empathy and kindness allowed him to live out his last days in comfort, respect, and shared laughs. The valor team showed the upmost respect and gratitude towards him. The individuals I would like to recognize in the Valor team are as follows: Don, Janelle, Glenn, Deanna A, Deanna L, Rea, Gabrielle, Penny, Tiffany, Frank, Jason, Ashley, Randy Heather, Val, Carrie, Nadia, Heidi, Leonard, Thera, and Donna from vascular. In lieu of flowers his family would like to encourage those who want to contribute, to make a donation to honor his hospice team members individually. Donations can be sent to Macon Funeral Home, 261 Iotla St, Franklin, NC 28734, checks payable to Natasha Ledford. The family will be delivering 100% of the donations to his team.

A private graveside service for family and close friends will be held Thursday, July 2nd, at 11am, at Woodlawn Cemetery. Military honors will be conducted by the American Legion Post #108 and VFW Post #7339. Rev. Don Moffitt will officiate.

Online condolences can be made at www.maconfuneralhome.com.

Macon Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.