Julia Carland Ledford, Ph.D.

Julia Carland Ledford, Ph.D, 77, passed away on December 9, 2023 surrounded by loved ones.

She arrived to bless the lives of her parents, Overton Ferrell and Inez Ledford of Hopkinsville, Kentucky on October 2, 1946. Julia learned from them and then became a strong role model herself of faith in God.  She carried a fierce love for and dedication to her family, friends and students while completing an undergraduate, two master's and a Doctorate degree.

“J.C.”, Judy, “Doc” and Julie were affectionate nicknames she enjoyed hearing from family, students and her partner. Her career with Owensboro Community College spanned 32 active years teaching Communications, Speech and Theatre classes. She also served as Humanities Division Chair for 26 years. As Theatre Director, her greatest love, she produced and directed at least 60 plays with eager college students and even some local folks. They loved 'Doc' dearly as she offered a compassionately unique involvement with each participant, acknowledging them as individuals who mattered and allowing them to learn not only the skills to portray a character in a play, but a chance to recognize the best in themselves. Julie previously taught English and Theatre at Fort Lauderdale High School for eleven years.

She enjoyed cooking fried chicken dinners, chili, and delicious, artistic baked goods. Julie knitted thoughtful items for friends and family, always with the intention of making them smile. She had a fondness for pets, especially cats and dogs. Julie had a special place in her heart for visits to the mountains, which lifted her spirits.

The depth of Julie's spirit was obvious to all who came into her presence. She exuded an inner strength, steadfastness and an unconditional acceptance of each of us. Thank you, Julie, for living before us the passage in I Corinthians 13, “Love is…”!

Those surviving to celebrate her life include her loving partner of nineteen years, Sally Rudisill of Owensboro, KY; her sister, Juanita (Frank) Scott; a nephew, James Eli Scott (Denise Merriman); niece, Bethany Cassidy (Michael McCormick); two great-nephews, Parker and Carter Cassidy, all of Galesburg, Illinois; and her beloved cat, Cinnamon.

The memorial service will be at 1:00 PM, Thursday, December 21 at First Presbyterian Church in Owensboro.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or Owensboro Humane Society, 3101 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301.

Messages and condolences for the family may be shared at www.glenncares.com.