Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Doug Lebda Obituary
A native of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Mr. Lebda earned a B.S. from Bucknell University and later attended the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business. He began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers before turning his frustration with getting a first mortgage into a new idea: a website where lenders compete for consumers' business. He launched that site-LendingTree-in 1996 and took it national in 1998.
Under his leadership, LendingTree went public in 2000, navigated the dot-com downturn, and was sold to IAC/InterActiveCorp in 2003, with Mr. Lebda continuing in senior roles before returning to lead the spin-off that became LendingTree, Inc. He remained founder-chairman and chief executive for most of the company's life.
Colleagues remembered him as a visionary who simplified complex financial choices for everyday consumers. Following his death, LendingTree named Scott Peyree, previously the company's president and chief operating officer, as chief executive.
Beyond the C-suite, Mr. Lebda and his family supported health, education, and entrepreneurship initiatives, including a 2024 gift establishing the Lebda Family Rural Healthcare Program with Atrium Health to expand school-based virtual care in rural North Carolina.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: Steve Jennings/Getty Images)
7 Entries
JoAnna Clark Williams
October 18, 2025
I pray for comfort for Doug's family and friends during this time. Doug was a very kind person who gave others chances to grow their careers. I remember the first time I met him. I had flown in from TX for an interview but during our conversation we realized that we had both been raised in Pennsylvania and not far from each other. We would always talk about what was going on up there in that area. Doug you will be missed by so many. I am so fortunate to have been able to call you my friend. May God bless your family during all of this as LendingTree blessed me when my husband passed away. JoAnna Clark
Bonnie Bossert
October 18, 2025
My deepest and sincere sympathy to all the family, children , parents , sister and loving friends. I knew the family, and Doug from a young boy and my heart grieves with you all. May God´s grace comfort you in this saddest of times.
Tom Berbas
October 18, 2025
My sincere condolences to Doug Lebda´s family, friends, and colleagues. His vision and leadership transformed how people navigate financial decisions, and his positive impact will be felt for years to come. Wishing comfort and peace to all who mourn his loss.
Sincerely,
Tom Berbas
Chris
October 16, 2025
I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Doug Lebda. May the God who gives comfort be with you during this difficult time.
How you can show support
RB
October 16, 2025
An innovative thinker whose approach to lending changed the outlook of mortgages. He helped people have a better opportunity to borrow, a really unique idea. Heartfelt condolences to the Lebda family, may God be with you in your time of loss.
Mak
October 15, 2025
I´m so sorry to hear of Douglas passing. I pray you are comforted by friends and family during this time.
Patty Hendrix
October 15, 2025
I am so sad to hear of Doug´s tragic death . I was lucky and blessed to help him sell and buy 2 homes . I loved getting to know him . A brilliant man . Much love , Patty Hendrix
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in Doug Lebda's name
How to support Doug's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Doug Lebda's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more