Steve Ledbetter Sr. June 24, 1950 - December 9, 2023.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of George Stephen (Steve) Ledbetter Sr., who left us on December 9, 2023. A resident of Sikeston and formerly of Charleston, he was 73 years old.

Steve Ledbetter was born on June 24, 1950, in Cairo, IL, to the late Joseph "Oscar" Ledbetter and Dorothy Ellen Brewer Ledbetter of Charleston. He was a 1968 graduate of Charleston High School.

Steve grew up enjoying all sports, specifically excelling in Football and Track & Field. He signed an athletic scholarship to play football at Memphis State University, however an unfortunate farming accident the summer prior to the start of his freshman year prevented him from pursuing this opportunity. He attended Southeast Missouri State University, and shortly after began farming and owned a trucking company in Bertrand for over 20 years. Steve was also a 3-term elected County Commissioner of Mississippi County's First District from 1987-1992

Steve had a passion for youth sports and was a strong supporter of the youth baseball and football programs in Charleston coaching and sponsoring a number of little league baseball and football teams over the years.

Surviving are two children, Stephen (Michelle) Ledbetter of St. Louis MO and Blake (Alison) Ledbetter of Parkland, FL; one sister Jo Ellen (Doug) Milner of Columbia MO, one brother David Ledbetter of Cartersville, GA; five grandchildren Grace Ledbetter, Madison Ledbetter, Lucy Ledbetter, Lily Ledbetter, and Emily Ledbetter.

One of Steve's closest friends, Justin "Bub" Landers of Sikeston, stood by him for an incredible 30 years. Bub was not just a friend but a source of unwavering support and camaraderie. His friendship brought immense joy to Steve's life, and his kindness will forever be remembered by the Ledbetter family.

Visitation will be from 1:30 P.M. until 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at McMikle Funeral Home in Charleston.

A private burial will be at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery near Charleston.

In lieu of flowers, plants and gift items, the family kindly requests memorial contributions be made to: Rheumatology Research Foundation 2200 Lake Boulevard Atlanta, GA 30319. https://www.rheumresearch.org/donate.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.