of Conway, AR
December 7, 1931 - June 7, 2024
Clara Fay Ledbetter, aged 92 of Conway, died on Friday, June 7, 2024. She was born in Little Rock, Arkansas on December 7,1931.
Clara was a third grade teacher at Ellen Srnith Elementary School in Conway for 23 years before retiring to care for her adopted grandchildren with her husband, Bill. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Conway. She graduated from Central High School in 1949 where she was an outstanding member of the National Honor Society, the A.Cappella Choir, and Vice President of the Chapel Service. She graduated from the Arkansas State Teachers College (UCA) in 1970 with a Masters Degree in teaching reading. While attending ASTC, she was offered a Fulbright Scholarship to attend Sorbonne University in Paris, France to study French Language. She turned down the opportunity to marry her husband, Bill.
Clara was known for her knowledge and love for birds and flowers. She could tell you the name of any bird or flower if you pointed it out to her. She loved listening to Barry Manilow and was an avid reader, specifically of John Grisham and mystery novels. Clara shared memories with her loved ones of singing in her church choir and her days on her family farm that she grew up on in Carlisle, Arkansas. She was crowned the Little Rock Rose Parade Princess and also had the opportunity to meet Bob Hope as a beauty contestant. All that knew her were truly blessed to have known her and will miss her terribly.
She was preceded by her husband of 68 years, Lieutenant Colonel William Mitchell Ledbetter, Sr.; parents Horace Nation and Mary Nation; in-laws Arvor M. and Hildur Ledbetter; brother Thomas Nation (Joann); sister-in-law Emily Montgomery (Howard); brother-in-laws Arvor Ledbetter, Jr. and Edwin "Bud" Ledbetter.
Survivors include her son, William Mitchell Ledbetter, Jr.; daughters Diane Ledbetter, Lauralee Ledbetter, and Karen Ledbetter-Taylor; adopted grandchildren Alice Ledbetter-West (Matt), Daniel Ledbetter (Anna), and April Ledbetter-Blackburn (Justin); grandchildren Corey Ledbetter, Dr. Amy Taylor (Tyler), and Laini Taylor; great grandchildren William Warner Ledbetter, Wrynnly Ellys Ledbetter, Clara Elizabeth Blackbum, and Williarn Case Blackbum; sister-in-law Beverly Ledbetter; as well as several cousins, nephews, and nieces.
The family would like to thank Conway Regional and Heritage Living Center for caring for their loved one during this time.
Funeral Services will be 10:00 AM, Friday, Jun 14, 2024 at First United Methodist Church in Conway, Arkansas. Burial will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation is 5:00-7:00 PM on Thursday, June 13,2024 al Roller-McNutt Funeral home in Conway.
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6 Condolence(s)
Rachelle Ussery
Friday, June 14, 2024
Bill and Family-I am so sorry for your loss. Your Mother was beautiful. We lost our sweet Mother on June 8th-one day apart. They are probably in Heaven catching up. You will be in our prayers to give you strength and peace during this difficult time.
Kathy Spangler Hamlett
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Laura, I just found out about the loss of your sweet mom. She was a lovely woman and friend to my mom. I will remember you all in my prayers during this difficult time.
JERRY Case
Thursday, June 13, 2024
So sorry to hear of Ms Ledbetter passing .My parents live on the same street as the Ledbetter family for years in west conay .My prayers go out to the entire family .
Helena Reynaud
Thursday, June 13, 2024
Sincere sympathy to the family of Mrs. Clara Ledbetter. April and Justin, prayers for your loss, especially for your children’s Great Grandmother. She was a blessing when our son transferred to her room. The help she gave our son the last half of his 3rd grade was an example of a dedicated and special teacher. I’ll never forget her. She was a beautiful person inside and outside. God bless
Karen Matthews
Monday, June 10, 2024
I was lucky enough to be Miss Clara's co-worker for three years. She was loved by her students and fellow teachers. She was always dressed to the "nines" but was also a family loving down to earth person! Ahh will be missed! Love to her family.
Cindy Gates
Monday, June 10, 2024
Clara was the definition of a true southern Lady. She was the best teacher of teachers and students. She loved her family and always placed her children , grandchildren , and great grandchildren at the top of the list. Warner Ledbetter and Corey loved their Ganmaw more than anything.
Clara thanks for everything that you did for friends and family.
I know you are happy to see ganpaw!
Sincerely,
Cindy