Roger “Steve” Ledbetter, 75, of Coal Valley, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026, at UnityPoint Health – Trinity, Rock Island. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Steve leaves behind a legacy of kindness and warmth that will be cherished by all who knew him. In a final act of generosity, Steve was an organ donor and received a heartfelt honor walk at the hospital, reflecting the selfless spirit that defined his life. His liver is bringing new life to a 60-year-old woman. 

Born on July 28, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, Steve was the son of William and Ruby Ham Ledbetter. He grew up in Salem Missouri, attended a one room schoolhouse and remained a “country boy “ all his life . 

He pursued higher education at Evangel College in Springfield, Missouri. He left college to become a railroad Carmen, like his father and even became his dad’s boss. 

He married Rita “Pixie” Laubert, in 1972. Together they created a loving family with three devoted children: Brian Ledbetter (Bobbie), Stephanie (Paul) Seidl and Alexis (Joshua) Bailey. By God’s grace they adopted Moises Eldor and Frandy Dejean, both born in Haiti. Steve took great joy in being a grandfather to eight grandchildren—Anthony Becker, Brook Ledbetter, Kaitlyn Ledbetter, Joshua Seidl, Elizabeth Seidl, Micaiah Seidl, Kerrighan Webster, Kyndall Webster, and Liam Bailey—each of whom brought immense joy to his life. He has two great grandchildren. Avi and Gio. He is also survived by his sister, Phyllis Light (Jake) and nieces. 

Steve dedicated many years of his life as a supervisor in the car department and hazmat team for Frisco, which later became known as BNSF in Galesburg, Illinois. His career was marked by hard work and dedication, traits that endeared him to colleagues and friends alike. He made sure Pixie did not stop close to railroad crossings and inspected every train car as it rolled by. 

A cherished member of Heritage Church in Rock Island. He served in security for children’s church and the kids loved him when they figured out he was a gentle giant. His personal passions included a deep appreciation for model trains construction , woodworking , and a fascination with Native American heritage and tradition –often going to Pow Wows in the Southwest . 

Per Steve’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and there will be no formal services. Instead, those who knew and loved Steve are encouraged to celebrate his life and the many memories shared. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Family and friends are invited to express their condolences and share fond memories at wheelanpressly.com. While Steve may no longer walk among us, his impact on our hearts will remain forever. 

Rest in peace, Steve. Your laughter, love, and light will be deeply missed but never forgotten.