Mildred Jean (Ledford) Osborne

It is with deep and profound earthly sadness that we announce that Mildred Jean Osborne transitioned to eternal rest on January 30, 2025, at the age of 88.

She was born on March 13, 1936, in Swain County, NC to the late Zeb Ledford, Jr. and Lula Nations Ledford.

She later made California her home, where she was crowned Queen for a Day.  Which was fitting as she was considered Queen every day, being referenced to as Wonder Woman or Marilyn Monroe at times.  She was strong as steel, yet as fragile as the most beautiful flower and at times a force to be reckoned with, as many will remember.  She had a smile that would light up a room.

She loved to work in the garden and plant flowers.  It seemed like she could stick a stick in the ground, and it would grow.  She loved the holidays and could be observed cooking for days for her family.  She was dedicated to her husband and children in her life.  Her green beans, potato salad and biscuits were legendary and will be the best of times and food that will ever be eaten.

She was a supervisor at a metal manufacturing company, until becoming disabled and at which time she fulfilled becoming the unwavering caregiver and companion to her husband Jim.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband and love of her life James William Osborne and her grandson Kenneth “Joshua” Morris.

Left to cherish her memory are her son Tim Garrison, her daughters Kimberly Barton and Christa Nance (Ken); her grandchildren Misty Rae Rose, Jessica Crawford and Chase Burris; and her great-grandchildren Treyson, Haisleigh, Ridge and Bristol.

The family would like to thank the rays of light at Davidson Health and Rehab for her care during her residence.

A visitation will be held from 9:30 – 10:30 Friday, February 7th, 2025, at the fellowship hall building at Haven Lutheran Church, 207 W Harrison St., Salisbury, NC 28144. A graveside service will follow at the Salisbury National Cemetery, 501 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, NC 28144 at 11:00 Friday, February 7th, 2025.  Where she will be laid to rest with her husband Jim Osborne.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for memorials to be made to any Veterans or Dementia non-profit of your choice.

Lyerly Funeral Home serves the Osborne family.  Online condolences may be made at www.lyerlyfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mildred Jean (Ledford) Osborne, please visit our floral store.