TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
grandkids, working at the family farm, eating out, and riding around sipping from “roadies” filled with water or unsweetened tea. Buddy and Betty, along with their children and grandchildren, enjoyed a bountiful life, full of blessings and many opportunities to give back by serving their employees and beloved community. In 2010, Betty passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Three years later, Buddy followed her to heaven. Their legacy lives on through their son, Steve, daughter- in-law, Lisa, and grandchildren, Lesley, Ben, and Morgan. Each forging their own paths and continuing to honor the Ledwell name. Lesley Ledwell Dukelow, president of Ledwell, has transitioned into a role that, as one would imagine, her grandfather would want her to take. Like him, she enjoys walking around and interacting with those who represent the heart of Ledwell. According to Boots Thomas, “For Mr. Buddy, his employees were his family, and he cared for them deeply. He knew every single employee’s name because they mattered to him.” It did matter to him, and it still matters to Lesley and Steve today. The leadership at Ledwell seems to have carried that torch nicely. Long-time Ledwell engineer Gary Gathright says, “Being an engineer is really the only job I ever wanted. Getting to do that and be a part of something bigger, something local, something that adds to the world right here at Ledwell… that’s the true definition of success. Being able to give back to our community, our people, and our partners— that’s an investment that pays back over and over again.” Sarah Blaauw, account manager, echoes Gary’s sentiments. “I grew up knowing the Ledwell name, but working here taught me how truly special this place is. The Ledwell family has built a legacy rooted in humility, generosity, and true community. It’s in the way they treat people, the way they approach problems, and the way they quietly support this community without ever asking for recognition. I love showing up for the people who always show up for others. I’m proud of the reputation that follows the Ledwell name whenever I tell someone who I work for. I never imagined I’d end up in the world of truck manufacturing, but these people are the reason it feels like home.”
Welding is key to Ledwell’s operations.
Ledwell’s corporate office anchors its Texarkana manufacturing campus.
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BUSINESS & POLITICS
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