Mark Ledbetter

Dr. T. Mark (Butch) Ledbetter passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at home on July 11, 2024. Born and raised in Carrville, Alabama, the son of Carson and Lois (Weldon) Ledbetter, he graduated from Tallassee High School in 1974 and went on to study at Auburn University (B.A.), Duke University (M.Div.), the University of Durham, England, and the Graduate Institute of the Liberal Arts at Emory University (Ph.D.). A gifted professor of philosophy, religion, and the arts, he influenced generations of students to believe in themselves, to find their passion, and to play, including those he taught at Wesleyan, Huntingdon and Millsaps Colleges, Auburn University, and the College of Saint Rose. For twenty-five years he was also the Executive Director of the Southern Humanities Council, one of the oldest interdisciplinary associations in the U.S., organizing many engaging conferences which he oversaw with warmth and hospitality. He also served United Methodist congregations in Georgia and New York, and in recent years was a vocal member of Upper New York for Full Inclusion (UNYFI). Wherever he was, the lesson he always taught was to be kind to each other and to spread love wherever we go, as much as possible, something he poured his heart into every day. He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Susan Cumings, his sister Dian Ashurst, and his two beloved children, of whom he will be forever proud, Weldon Ledbetter (Benjamin) and Silas Cumings Ledbetter. Donations in his honor and memory can be made to Things of My Very Own, Inc., Music Maker Foundation, Lost-n-Found Youth, or to any organization significant to your relationship with him or close to your heart. A celebration of his life will be held in the Oval Room at Wesleyan College, Macon Georgia, on Saturday, September 14th at 2pm. Wear your Chucks!