Lolita Ledbetter, 94, of Independence, Missouri passed away Monday, December 15, 2025. Services will be held at 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, December 23, 2025 at Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home, Independence, Missouri; burial will follow at Old Salem Cemetery, Independence, Missouri. The family will received friends from 11:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
Lolita was born on February 8, 1931 in St. Louis, Missouri to Claude and Mildred (Smith) Cooper.
Lolita devoted her life to caring for her family. She especially loved baking for her children when they were young, often making their favorite banana or pumpkin bread. She cherished time spent with her grandchildren and had a gift for making everyone feel welcome. She often opened her home and her heart, taking others in when they needed a place to stay. Walking was one of her greatest joys, and she did it faithfully for as long as her body allowed. Lolita had a fondness for all things sparkly, whether clothing, jewelry, or accessories, which reflected her bright and joyful spirit.
She was preceded in death by her parents, loving husband, Ernest and her children: Susan Kay Ledbetter and Stephen Ledbetter.
Lolita is survived by her daughters: Marilyn Wood and Trudy (Curtis) Atherton; her grandchildren: Michael, Jason, Joshua Atherton and Tiffany (Justin) Chrip; and many beloved great-grandchildren.
Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600