John David Ladson, lovingly known as John D., was born on August 30, 1952, in Greenville, South Carolina, to the late Margaret Ladson Gatewood and Johnny Butler. He peacefully departed this life on May 1, 2026, surrounded by love.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Margaret Ladson Gatewood and Roscoe Gatewood, Sr., and his sibling, Jerome Gatewood.

He lived a full and meaningful life marked by faith, family, and love. John attended Taft High School and graduated in 1972. During his time there, he met the love of his life, Deborah Stewart. The two were married on January 5, 1973, and their union was blessed with two children: Sharlana Stewart, and Granada Ladson. Though the marriage later ended in divorce after 13 years, they shared many cherished memories.

John dedicated several years of service working with the City of Cincinnati Park Board before continuing his career as a janitor in various hospital settings. He was known as a master storyteller whose kindness, humor, integrity, devotion, and faith left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. His laughter brought joy to family and friends alike.

He leaves to cherish his memory his former wife, Deborah; his children, Sharlana Rucker (Richard), Granada Thompson (Sean), and Jeffrey J, Jamie.W.  his grandchildren, Napoleon, William, Asia, Shanice, Demarco; and a host of great-grandchildren including Tevaughn Jr. Camryn, Teshawn Jr., Orlando Jr., Gionni, LeAsia, Alexis, Journey, Keyreia, Amaria, Demarco Jr., Demarion, Demario, Miguel, Mariah, and Demarcus. John is also survived by his siblings: Marvin, Shirley, Roscoe Jr., Frances Hambrick (Roger), Patricia Johnson (Harold), James (Wendy), along with a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

John D. will truly be missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and devotion to his family will live on in all who knew him.

Friends are cordially invited to a visitation with the family from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm, on Friday, May 15, 2026, at the Walker Funeral Home - Walnut Hills Chapel, 2625 Gilbert Avenue, Cincinnati (45206). The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation, beginning at 4:00 pm. Friends and family will gather to share memories, find solace in one another's company, and honor the legacy he leaves behind.

We invite you to take a few moments to share fond memories and words of comfort and condolence with the Ladson family. Please click the "Tribute Wall" icon above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for the Ladson family during this difficult time. Please call 513.251.6200 or visit www.HerbWalker.com for additional information.