Martha Ledbetter
May 12, 1941
Martha Pauline Scott was born on May 12, 1941 in Miami, Florida and was the only beloved daughter of Dorothy and Paul Scott. She lived most of her life in Miami, graduating from Miami Jackson Senior High School, class of 1959. While at Jackson she became the concert choir accompanist. At 9 years old, Martha was the youngest pianist to serve at Olympia Heights Church. Martha came to know and accept the Lord as her Savior when she was 9 years old and has faithfully served the Lord all of her life. Martha graduated from Barry University in 1965 earning a bachelors degree in Music and Secondary Education. That same year she married the love of her life, Tom. After marriage, while Tom served in the military, she was always involved in teaching in schools where ever they were stationed - and always teaching piano students (for over 40 years). In 1988, while Tom was in the seminary, she earned a masters degree in Music Education at Georgetown College in Georgetown, Kentucky. Where ever Tom has served in the ministry, Martha has been alongside serving as well as organist, pianist and leading children's choirs. Martha is survived by her husband, Tom; daughters, Dr. Terry Lister and Cynthia Pereira; son-in-law, Ivan Pereira; Traci Tursi and son-in-law, Michael Tursi; sister-in-law, Jeanne Knapp; grandchildren, Ivan Pereira, Christopher Pereira, Jennifer Tursi, Julia Tursi and many nieces and nephews, all of which are beloved.
Merry Christmas Martha as you spend your Christmas with the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
Tributes
Sydney Smith wrote on Dec 11, 2017:
"I just want to thank the Ledbetter family for sharing Mrs. Martha Ledbetter with my family. My daughter Sydney Smith (15) was her student for 6 years. From the moment we met Mrs. Ledbetter her disposition was just beautiful She was very angelic. She was a part of our lives for 6 years through music lessons, and yet we all loved her. Everything about Mrs. Ledbetter spoke volumes of what a Christian character ought to be. My daughter took it very hard when she heard of her passing. We last met with Mrs. Ledbetter for a music session in November 13 and early December she passed away. We had plans to begin lessons after the holiday. We will always cherish her in our hearts, and want to thank you once again for sharing her with us - She truly has blessed our hearts. Love, The Smith family. "
Judy Sauer wrote on Dec 11, 2017:
"Tom...There doesn't seem to be enough words to express my "shock" and sympathy..I have so many wonderful memories of our time at First Baptist of Greater Miami. I remember when you came to the church from Kentucky and the reception that night.....Besides being such an accomplished pianist and organist...Martha was truly one of the sweetest people I have ever known....and not to forget my MOM was truly a "fan" of you both.....Please accept my "heartfelt" condolences....You are in my thoughts and prayers.....Would really like to talk with you when and if you feel "up to it" later.. By the way, this is a beautiful picture of Martha...(just the way I remember her)...Always, Judy Cotnam"
Carol Holden wrote on Dec 8, 2017:
"So sorry to hear of your loss. Martha taught my daughter piano for several years and was my sons kindergarten teacher. They both loved her and my husband and I thought very highly of her too. She was a very special women and I'm sure will be missed by many. We shall meet again in heaven some day and shall praise God together in song. The Hauk and Holden Family"
LeeAnn McKinney wrote on Dec 8, 2017:
"Tom, Cindy, Traci and family; I am so sorry to hear about Martha's passing. Please accept my condolences. Wish I could be there for you at this time. May the memories you carry, help you through this time of grieving. "