Darrell Kent Ledford

Darrell “Papa” Ledford (January 2, 1955 – April 15, 2025)

Darrell, lovingly known as Papa or Papa Rex, lived life with a big heart, a quick wit, and a smile that made everyone feel at home. He was the kind of guy who could make a friend anywhere, offer the best life advice in the middle of a softball game, and never missed a chance to cheer for his teams—or his people.

Born and raised in San Diego, California, Darrell was the proud son of Bonita and Leland Ledford, and a hometown guy through and through. As a kid, he made Padres history as the first-ever batboy when the team went Major League, and he never stopped being one of their biggest fans.

He played football for Patrick Henry High School, where his love of sports really came to life—and where playing Line Backer gave him the perfect excuse to hit hard and let out a little aggression. He loved the physicality, the strategy, and the camaraderie of the game. Football was more than a sport for him—it was a release, a passion, and a place where he felt completely in his element.

Darrell was a loyal, lifelong supporter of San Diego State University—cheering on Aztec football, basketball, and softball with genuine enthusiasm and pride. And if there was a Padres game on, you can bet he was watching, rooting, and analyzing every play.

But Darrell wasn’t just a fan—he was a coach in life. Whether he was training someone in the meat department, leading Bible studies, diving deep into conversations about the things he cared about, or coaching his daughters on the softball field, he gave his time and wisdom generously, and always with a sense of humor.

He was “Dad” or “Uncle” to many—related or not—and had a way of making people feel seen, supported, and loved. He brought warmth and laughter wherever he went, and you could always count on him for a good story, a well-timed joke, or some honest advice.

Darrell’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He is survived by his loving wife Diane, his daughters Carlee Ledford Zank and Amy Ramirez, son-in-law Ramon Ramirez, future son-in-law Kevin Park, and his cherished grandchildren: Brayden and Parker Zank, and Marcus and Alexa Ramirez.

He is also survived by his beloved siblings: Bonnie Pogue, Ronnie Ledford, and Dennis Ledford.

He wouldn’t want us to sit in sadness—he’d want us to smile, laugh, root for the Padres, talk about the deep stuff, and show up for the people we love. He lived big, he loved big, and he’ll be missed big.

Here’s to Papa—thank you for the love, the lessons, and the laughter.