Abigail Laura Ledford (Abbi), 26, entered into eternal life on January 3, 2025 – awaiting her new resurrection body at the restoration of all things in the new earth (Matthew 19:28; 1 Corinthians 15; 2 Peter 3:13; Revelation 21:1-4). Her earthly body was subject to significant ailments stemming from Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) including three vascular compressions: MALS (median arcuate ligament syndrome), NCS (nutcracker syndrome), and SMAS (small mesenteric artery syndrome) for which she had multiple major surgeries. Unfortunately, they did not restore her body’s ability to receive life sustaining nutrition or to regulate fluids, but did relieve the compressions that were occurring. She also had POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), MCAS (mast cell activation syndrome), Chiari malformation, and other conditions too many to name here. Her resurrection body will be free of all these things. Her season of suffering in this fallen world has now ended; her eternity of joy in the risen Lord has now begun. Our grieving continues, but we do not grieve as those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).
Abigail was born in Chambersburg, PA and enjoyed her childhood years in Curwensville, before moving to Butler, and finally to Coopersburg, PA. Abigail was selfless in caring for others above her own needs. Her ability to find the perfect gift was a testimony to her investment in knowing and loving others. Her endless creativity found outlets in many forms that changed as her abilities did. She had a relentless positive attitude, and ownership of this illness, often saying – “this is simply my burden” – acknowledging that everyone has their burdens, and hers was no more or less than others. She was an encouragement to others with her illness but was adamant that it did not define her. She will be dearly missed by her family, her friends (especially her “Flickerfly” community), and many of the medical professionals who played a part in her care. Abigail impacted everyone around her with profound kindness, perseverance, and maturity.
Abigail is survived by her parents Dan & Jen, her sisters Noelle and Rachel (Danny) Stone, her grandparents Carolyn Ledford and Rick & Bev Ratcliffe, and her Aunts & Uncles and Cousins. There will be nieces and nephews who never have the privilege of knowing Auntie Abbi, but her legacy will certainly be carried forward.
Words cannot begin to express appreciation to the nurses, doctors, aides, pharmacists, hospital staff & volunteers who have been part of this journey. We are also grateful for the support of other families in the EDS et al patient groups. We especially give thanks to our family, friends, and church family for your outstanding support.
Abigail’s earthly body will be buried in Historic Easton Cemetery with a Memorial Service taking place sometime in the spring of 2025. As with most things, Abbi thoroughly researched where she wanted her final resting place. We were delighted to find so many things that brought joy to Abigail, and look forward to filling her space with cherry blossoms and hope.
The last enemy to be destroyed is death…So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power (1 Corinthians 15:26, 42-43).
Online condolences may be offered at www.AshtonFuneralHome.com. To help support Abbi’s family’s needs go to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-abbis-memorial-and-family-needs.
Bev and Rick Ratcliffe
January 10, 2025 at 9:33 am
Our hearts and prayers are, especially, with her parents and sisters today as our precious grand daughter is laid to rest. We rejoice that she is free and with her Lord.
David Ratcliffe
January 10, 2025 at 11:14 am
A brave and gentle soul, taken too soon. We love you, and miss you Abbi.
Uncle Dave
Susan Guilfoyle
January 10, 2025 at 1:33 pm
I consider it an honor and a privilege to call Abbi family. My niece. As a child, she made me smile and laugh watching her play with her cousins. As an adult she left me in awe with her wisdom and her kind and selfless ways. Always thinking of others first.
Grieving our loss of having her here, while also rejoicing that she was welcomed home by her heavenly father and is now pain free
Prayers for you all ❤️
Nancy Condon
January 10, 2025 at 2:02 pm
To the Ledfords:
We are so very sorry for your loss. We have many memories of young Abbi. Mom remembers watching her while Rachel was being born! Please know you are in our prayers.
Nancy Condon and Jeanne Eshelman
Tammy McELLroy
January 10, 2025 at 4:35 pm
I am blessed that I came to know Abbi and family.
Beth Thayer
January 10, 2025 at 5:31 pm
I have so many wonderful memories of Abbi – especially that special bond she had with Scott. I will always hold dear our Taylor Swift concert and Mama Swift bringing us down to right in front of the stage! The strength, bravery and wisdom she showed through her last few years was amazing and her kindness and insight a testament to who she was. The world has lost a beautiful soul but our Heavenly Father has gained one. Love to you all ❤️
Bonnetta Stanley
January 10, 2025 at 6:12 pm
Saddened that Abbi has left her family and friends but hopeful and grateful she is now in a place where she is whole again. Her spirit will be kept alive with the memories and stories family and friends share.
Elizabeth Turnage
January 11, 2025 at 6:42 pm
What a beautiful testimony to the hope of a resurrection body. I enjoyed learning more about this beautiful young woman who so clearly blessed many in her life and is pointing many toward the hope of heaven in her death. I do pray for comfort for all who must miss her so.
Bonita Stokes
January 16, 2025 at 10:00 am
Pastor Dan and Jen, I’m so sorry for your daughter’s earthly passing. She is with her Savior now. My deepest condolences to you and your family.