John Edward Ledbetter

"John John"

Beloved family man and educator, died Sunday, December 6, 2020 suddenly at 45 years old. John was born and raised in Joliet, a 1993 graduate of Joliet West High School. He earned a bachelor's degree from Robert Morris College and his master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of St. Francis. John lived and loved in Lockport for the past 22 years. He found peace in fishing, playing BINGO, laughing too loud in movie theaters, and coaching basketball for his students – his favorite athletes were his daughters. John was a cherished teacher and left a lasting impression on his students of Laraway Elementary, Charles Reed Elementary, Edna Keith Elementary, Woodland Elementary, Brady Elementary and O'Donnell Elementary. His students described him as kind and supportive, always ready to uplift his students with a smile on his face. John was a lifelong avid Chicago Cubs fan.

Survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Patricia (Nee McCluskey); two adored daughters, Hailey and Sydney; his mother, Kathleen (Nee Kenney) Jones and his father, Johnny Ledbetter; his sisters, Jodie (Brooke) Ledbetter and Jill (Edward) Harris; beloved uncle of, Jailen, Kamren and Jaren Smith, and EJ Harris. Numerous other nieces, nephews, friends and cherished family members also survive.

Preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Wilma Werden; maternal grandfather, Bernard Kenney; paternal grandmother, Emma Jean Grose; brother-in-law, Roger McCluskey; and cousins, Marty and Demetrius Ledbetter.

John passed away due to complications after contracting Covid-19. Services will be held with only his immediate family in attendance due to the current safety precautions required. In lieu of flowers, a GOFUNDME page has been established and donations are accepted at : gf.me/u/zbsfjx

A memorial celebration of John's life will be held at a later date when social distancing is not required.