David Henry Ledbetter

Richfield, Utah – David Henry Ledbetter, age 44, returned home peacefully on October 18, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most, probably with Alexa still trying to play one last song in the background.

David was born on March 11, 1981, in Richfield, Utah, to Ken Ledbetter and MelaNee Beckstead. He spent his childhood in Richfield, making memories filled with camping trips with his dad, soccer games, sweets from grandma’s house, and the kind of mischievous fun that turns into the best stories years later. A graduate of Cedar Ridge High School, David had a work history as wide-ranging as his interests: dishwasher, waiter, cook, hod tender, concrete finisher, laborer, builder, janitor, utilities locator, and karate instructor. But of all his jobs, he especially loved working as a pipe layer for Kearns Improvement District. There was something about jumping in a trench and getting his hands dirty.

David lived in the Salt Lake and Kearns areas for about 10 years, where he found more than just work. He found community, purpose, and karate. Known to many as "Sensei Dave," he earned a black belt and shared his love of martial arts with students as an instructor. On June 20, 2003, he married the love of his life, Cindy Heaton. Together, they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and their greatest joy: their son, Heaton. David absolutely lit up when talking about his boy. Whether it was cheering from the sidelines, watching him take on the world, or riding shotgun while Heaton drove them up into the mountains, he was always the proudest dad in the room (or in the truck).

David was a man of many loves: the outdoors, camping, four-wheeler rides, fishing, drawing, cooking, animals, music, and most of all, people. He had a way of making everyone feel seen and accepted. His creativity showed up in small, meaningful ways, especially in the drawing game where he started a sketch and then passed it back and forth just to see what the picture might become. Kind of like how he approached life. He never really had a favorite thing. He just loved doing—exploring, building, creating, playing, and laughing. He was always game for something new, even if it didn’t make much sense at the time.A perfect example of that was the "pick a song" game. Whoever was in the house had to take turns telling Alexa to play a song of their choice. It was chaotic, occasionally painful, and absolutely David’s idea of a good time. More than anything, David will be remembered for his huge heart, endless kindness, and that distinctive, unforgettable laugh. The kind of laugh that filled a room and stuck with you long after the moment passed. You couldn’t help but smile when you heard it. David was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and lived with love and service in his heart.

David is survived by his wife, Cindy; son, Heaton David; mother, MelaNee Beckstead; stepfather, Gene Robertson; stepmother, Rowena Hulet Ledbetter; brothers, Victor and James Ledbetter; and sister, Kendra Ledbetter.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ken Ledbetter, and grandparents, Bill and Lou Ledbetter, Melvin Beckstead, and Arland and Bobbie Langford.

In lieu of flowers, consider honoring Dave by taking a drive through the mountains, starting a sketch with a friend, or playing your favorite song just a little too loud.

A celebration of David’s life will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 1, 2025 in the Springer Turner Funeral Home Chapel, 260 N 400 W in Richfield. Bring your stories, your best song choice, and your laughter. He’d love that. 

Cremation services have been performed and burial will be in the Richfield Cemetery under the care of the Springer Turner Funeral Homes of Richfield and Salina, Utah.