Thursday, October 1, 2026
In Loving Memory of Lonnie K. Ledbetter Jr
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Lonnie K. Ledbetter, Jr. on April 24, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. He was surrounded by some of his closest lifelong friends and his wife, Tawni.
Born in Dallas, Texas in 1942, Lonnie enlisted in the Navy and served in the Vietnam conflict. After exiting the service, Lonnie started what would become State National Insurance Company. He brought on his two brothers, Terry and Garry Ledbetter, and grew the company over the next 40 years, and ultimately it sold in a landmark sale in 2017 to Markel, Inc.
Lonnie had a passion for adventure, including piloting his own planes, helicopters, scuba diving, black diamond snow skiing and motorcycle trips to Sturgis. He enjoyed fast cars and even faster boats. As of late, he was enjoying a more laid-back time with his wife, aboard their yacht "Kashmir." An active horse owner, his Iron Horse Appaloosa Ranch won numerous awards and recognition from its home in Granbury, Texas, initially with its appaloosas and now currently with his wife's quarter horses. Iron Horse Ranch is home today to many top AQHA, APHA and ApHC stallions and mares.
Lonnie is remembered by his current wife, Tawni Ledbetter, and immediate family; son Lonnie "Trace" Ledbetter III and wife Debbra along with their children, his daughter Kendall Hohmann and husband Bill, and their children, his brother Terry and wife Laurie and their children, and the children of his late brother Garry, and many nieces, nephews, aunt, uncles and cousins. He enjoyed and welcomed into his family Tawni's five children and six grandchildren. Lonnie was preceded by his wife of 40 years, Saundra, his brother Garry and his parents.
A celebration of life will be held May 10 at their home in Granbury, Texas, 601 Meander Rd. Viewing will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The celebration will be from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. This celebration was fully planned by Lonnie, and we hope everyone will attend to honor this man who loved and touched so many and to fulfill his final wishes.
