The death of Dr. Loren Ledford is a tremendous loss to this community that cannot be easily measured. Literally thousands of residents of this community mourn for Dr. Ledford and extend their sympathy to his family.
Dr. Ledford’s young age — he was only 42 — is one reason why his death is so shocking. At a time when he should be in the prime of his life, this gifted young man is taken away from us. It is yet another reminder of how fragile life can be.
But beyond his age is the positive impact Dr. Ledford had on this community.
At a time when most of our gifted young people were leaving Ashland for greener pastures elsewhere, Dr. Ledford returned home to the community he loved after completing medical school. We wish more of our gifted young people would return to become a giving, dedicated citizen in their community like Dr. Ledford did.
Dr. Ledford loved the Ashland Tomcats. He was the team physician, and in that role, he not only shared his expertise as a medical professional, but he also became a mentor for many young athletes. He encouraged them to excel not just in sports but also the classroom.
From all accounts, Dr. Ledford was a dedicated family man who loved his wife, Amy, and two young children. Being a physician is a demanding, time-consuming profession, but Dr. Ledford tried to always make time for his family.
Dr. Ledford’s death leaves a tremendous void in the medical community that will be difficult to fill. In practice by himself, Dr. Ledford had several thousand patients who trusted him and were dedicated to him. In a community where there is a shortage of general practice physicians, those patients now must find a new doctor, and many family doctors in this community currently have so many patients that they are not taking new ones, just as Dr. Ledford was not. Our hope is that some will make room for Dr. Ledford’s patients.
Just about any which way one measures it, Dr. Loren Ledford was a positive force in this community. More than just a gifted doctor, he was outstanding person who was taken from us far too soon.
