Ellis Clayton Lednum III

Ellis Clayton “Buddy” Lednum III, 58, of Parksley, VA, and formerly of Salisbury, MD, passed away at Shore Health & Rehabilitation Center in Parksley, on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. Born on October 15, 1965, in Salisbury, he was the son of Donna Leah Lednum, of Salisbury, and the late Ellis Clayton Lednum Jr.

Buddy was brilliant from the moment he entered the world. He was born on the exact day and time predicted by his doctor. He taught himself to read at age 3 and could spell any word in the dictionary by age 7. Inquisitive and well-read, as a child he once took apart the energy meter on his house, much to the dismay of the service technician that was called. “Don’t worry, Mom. I can put it back together,” he said, unphased.

He used his immense brain power to earn three bachelor’s degrees in computer science, oceanography, and physical education. He wrote the computer program that was used in the elevator of the Museum of the Bible. Buddy enjoyed deducing, reasoning, and eventually solving problems.

His acerbic wit was a true delight to his wife and daughter. He found humor in the mundane day-to-day tasks. Even in his final weeks, he made sure to bring a little bit of comedy and teasing to the nurses who took care of him.

Buddy is survived by his wife of 37 years, Dana C. Lednum, of Parksley; daughter, Sydney A. Lednum, of Parksley; mother, Donna Leah Lednum, of Delmar, DE; brother, James E. Lednum, of Delmar; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins; and beloved service dog, Marley.

He was predeceased by his father, Ellis Clayton Lednum Jr.

Interment will be held on Monday, January 8, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., at the Parksley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Williams Funeral Home, P.O. Box 1, Parksley, VA 23421, to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home.

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