Jason Robert Ledbetter
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Jason Robert Ledbetter, 53, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on July 22, 2026. Born on December 13, 1972, in Colfax, Washington and raised in Lacrosse Washington, Jason lived a life marked by service, adventure, and enduring love for family and friends.
Jason was the beloved son of Robert Lee Ledbetter and the late Ruth E. Martin (nee Moore). He was raised with the support of his stepfather Jerry Martin and shared a close bond with his siblings: Katie Martin, Jared Martin (Heather), Jesse Martin (Susan), and Jinny Hazlett (Justin). Jason was a devoted husband to Rebecca Gaskill and a proud father to his son Robert James Ledbetter. He cherished his granddaughter Meredith Ledbetter and held dear the many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who enriched his life. Jason was preceded in death by his stepson Alex Gaskill; grandparents Harold and Dorothy Ledbetter and James and Clara Moore; as well as
uncles Bill Moore and Ralph Moore and aunt Louis Camp (nee Moore).
From an early age, Jason displayed a passion for adventure. One of his earliest hobbies was raising his horse Dynamite, with whom he competed in roping competitions during high school. His love for challenges extended into bull riding during a brief stint in Missouri. He loved volunteering with his sons’ Scout Troup. Jason also had a lifelong fascination with vehicles—he loved tinkering with anything he owned—and more recently found joy in dirt bike racing, which he fondly referred to as his “throttle therapy.”
Following his high school graduation, Jason answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. After concluding his Marine Corps career in 1995, he continued his dedication to military service by joining the Missouri National Guard. His time with the National Guard took him on deployments to Afghanistan and Kuwait before retiring in 2021. He continued his service by serving those who serviced during his time as a member of the Military Funeral Honors team and as a VA Police Officer at the Kansas City VA Hospital. Jason’s commitment to duty exemplified his selflessness and courage.
Jason’s personality left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. Known for his willingness to lend a helping hand at a moment’s notice, he approached life with kindness and humor that could transform even the most challenging tasks into memorable adventures. His crooked smile had a way of chasing away worries and bring light into any room.
As those who loved him reflect on Jason’s life, they are reminded of the words from Linda Ellis’ poem *The Dash*: “What matters most is the dash between the years.” Jason’s dash was filled with love for family, loyalty to friends, dedication to service, and an adventurous spirit that inspired all who crossed his path.
May Jason Robert Ledbetter’s memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a reminder of a life well-lived. Visitation will be held at 2:00 pm, August 17, 2026, followed by a celebration of life, with full military honors at 3:00 pm, at Heartland Cremation and Burial Society, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, Missouri 64133
Becky – I’m so sorry to hear of Jason’s passing.
Praying the You will feel Gods comfort as you walk the difficult road of grief. Hugs to you my friend!
This beautiful reflection of Jason’s life, is such a perfect picture of who Jason was. My heart goes out to Becky and Rob, as well as the rest of Jason’s family and friends.
I worked with Jason in the emergency department ! Great man and great policeman! We knew we could count on him for anything in the ED. He will be greatly missed. Heaven gained a special angel for sure !
I am sorry to hear of Officer Ledbetter’s passing. I started working for the KCVA at a clinic a few hours away in 2014 but still remember meeting him at the main campus over the years. I will always remember his smile and kindness. He was always willing to help. My husband was active duty at Whiteman AFB and we chatted about military life at the base. He was a good person and the world is less bright with his light no longer with us. My sincerest Condolences to his family.
Dear loved ones,
No words can express the grief this loss brings to you. I wrap you in prayer for comfort and ease as you travel this road. Love and depend on each other.
Margar
Jason was my cousin several times removed. Always ready with a hug and smile. What a sad loss. He had so much fun his last visit to LaCrosse in June.
Blessings and prayers for his family.
Class of 91, years of school classes, growing pains, sports, driving cars (probably too fast). We grew close by time graduation came. Life tooks seperate ways. I felt like I needed to meet up with a few classmates this years Farmers Fest. Seeking Jason 35 years later, was a joy. Sharing a few beers & old stories. RIP Jason & prayers to the family
Class of 91, years of school classes, growing pains, sports, driving cars (probably too fast). We grew close by time graduation came. Life tooks seperate ways. I felt like I needed to meet up with a few classmates this years Farmers Fest. Seeking Jason 35 years later, was a joy. Sharing a few beers & old stories. RIP Jason & prayers to the family
I will miss Ledbetter at the Honor Annex ,We shared many laughs and stories at work Jason was a great guy to all those who encountered him. Gone to soon