Robert L. "Mush" Ledbetter

Robert Lee “Mush” Ledbetter

Robert Lee Ledbetter, affectionately known as “Mush,” was born on November 25, 1951, in Camden, New Jersey, to the late Charles Lee Ledbetter and Rosa Mae (Robinson) Ledbetter. Robert peacefully transitioned from this life on Sunday, September 27, 2026.

Robert attended the Penns Grove-Carneys Point School System and graduated in 1970. During his school years, he excelled in wrestling and developed the determination and strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life.

At an early age, Robert attended Mount Zion Fenwick Church in Woodstown, New Jersey, alongside his mother, siblings, and his 1st cousins, the Robinson children.

Those early years helped establish the strong family bonds that Robert treasured throughout his life.

After completing high school, Robert attended ironworker school for four years and graduated as one of the top welders on the East Coast. One of his first major assignments was helping to rebuild the Delaware Memorial Bridge. For many months, Robert could be seen high in the sky on a lift, welding beams alongside his coworkers.

Robert later joined the Ironworkers Union, where he was employed for more than 20 years before retiring at the age of 55.

Robert was also a true entrepreneur. From selling cars to completing personal welding jobs, he always knew how to “get his hustle on.” He was hardworking, resourceful, and knew how to make things happen. He also loved to travel and enjoyed life to the fullest.

Robert enjoyed staying active and participated in several marathons and cycling events. His determination and competitive spirit extended beyond his younger wrestling days and remained a part of his life throughout the years.

Robert was known for always being a sharp dresser. Whether the occasion was casual or formal, he made sure everything matched—from his hat all the way down to his shoes. Looking good was a tradition shared by Robert and his brothers, along with their love of keeping a nice car.

Robert had an affectionate smile and a playful smirk that could light up a room and let you know he was up to something. He was also truly a ladies’ man. With his charm and gift for conversation, the family would jokingly say that Robert could sell a woman a car with no wheels and convince her that the wheels were there—they were simply invisible!

Robert treasured conversations with his daughters. He knew he had to “come correct” when talking with them because they kept him smiling, laughing, and on his toes. The love he had for his daughters and his family was undeniable.

Robert enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially sitting around playing cards, laughing, talking, and enjoying good company. You could often find Robert spending time with his cousin George Little and his late cousin Jerome Stanback.

Above all, Robert was a family man. He loved hearing about the accomplishments and successes of his family and was always ready to offer advice to his nieces and nephews. To know Robert was to love him. After retirement, one thing was certain—Mush lived his best life.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Lee and Rosa Mae Ledbetter; his two sons, Robert Lee Ledbetter Jr. and Charles Lee “Litty” Ledbetter; his great-granddaughter, Demi Jones; his brothers, Bill Ledbetter and Charles “Buddy” Ledbetter; is sister, Lillie Mae Ledbetter Lewis; his aunts, Ella Robinson, Margaret Ledbetter Medley, Frances Ledbetter Horne, Lestine Ledbetter Medley, and Lilla Mae Ledbetter Little; and his uncles, James Robinson, James “JD” Ledbetter, Ken Ledbetter, and brother-in-law Rev. Melvin Brown.

Robert leaves to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy his loving companion, Rose Segers; his two beautiful daughters, Eldora “Charnelle” Ledbetter Mann (Jabbar) and Avery Brown (Javonte); his grandchildren, Kali Roots, Dominique Oge (John), Danielle Williams, Paul Morgan Jr. (Lamiah), Journi Brown, and Jayla Brown; his great-grandchildren, Julian Solis, Anyla Morgan, and Taylor Morgan; his sisters, Lucille Ledbetter Brown, Judy Ann Ledbetter Barriento (Humfredo), and Tara Stewart; his brothers, Atlas Ledbetter, William Roy (Ruth), and Everette Roy; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.