Obituary of Cleave O. Ledford

Cleve Olen Ledford, 95, of Towaco, NJ, passed away Thursday, April 15, 2021.

Cleve was born in Stigler, Oklahoma on November 11, 1925, son of the late Bertha May (Simmons) and Olen Henry Ledford.

Cleve and his late wife, Christine, were married 67 years at her death in 2012 and had a son, Neil, who predeceased them in 1989. In addition to being a loving and doting husband and father, Cleve was a dear friend to many. He would often regale his friends and neighbors with tales from a life well-lived. Whether sharing stories from his youth in Oklahoma, chasing jack-rabbits on horseback, harrowing adventures while serving the U.S. Army in Europe during World War II, or unique and challenging missions during his 28-year career as a Newark Police Officer, Cleve was always quick witted, with a great sense of humor. His warmth and generosity will be greatly missed by all.

During WWII, Cleve served as Private First Class in the 65^th Infantry Division, 3^rd Army with Patton between 1944-1946 and was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Mr. Ledford was preceded in death by his wife, Christine, son, Neil, parents, brother Obie Ledford, and sisters Hazel Stilwell, Ruby Hilby, and Virginia Burchfield.

Cleve is survived by his companion Milena, god daughter Claudia, brother-in-law Lawrence, and nephews Larry and David.

Visitation at Keri Memorial Funeral Home, 125 Main Street, Lincoln Park, New Jersey, Monday, April 19, 2021 from 4:00 – 7:00pm. Service will be Tuesday, April 20, 2021 at 10:00 am, followed by interment at Restland Memorial Park, East Hanover, N.J.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Cleve’s memory to the Montville Township First Aid Squad, P.O. Box 416, Montville, NJ 07045-0416.