Longtime Tax Commissioner Dies At 59 In Forsyth Co.

CUMMING, GA — The Forsyth County tax commissioner has died after serving 21 years in office, officials said Monday.

Forsyth County announced the death of Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter, a 59-year-old who unexpectedly died Saturday at his home, according to the county.

Ledbetter, a Forsyth Central High School and University of Georgia graduate, first became tax commissioner in January 2005 and was re-elected to office in 2024, county officials said. His sixth term was set to end on Dec. 31, 2028.

A cause of death was not revealed. Officials did not identify plans to fill his vacant seat.

Leaders in Forsyth shared the following statements:

“Tax Commissioner Matthew Ledbetter spent decades serving others, both through his office and throughout the community, in ways many may never fully know. News of his passing came as a shock to me and to Forsyth County as a whole. Matthew’s warmth, wit and gregarious personality will be missed by those of us who knew him personally, but the Forsyth County community lost a dedicated servant, leader, friend and advocate. Under Matthew’s leadership, the Tax Commissioner’s office was modernized, and residents consistently praised the service they received. My prayers and support are with Matthew’s wife, his sons, his family and the many lives he touched for the better.”

Forsyth Board of Commissioners Chairman Alfred John

“Tax Commissioner Matthew Ledbetter was not only my fellow constitutional officer, but he was also my friend. His service to Forsyth was exceptional and his legacy of customer service at the tax commissioners office is legendary. Dana and I, as well as the entire FCSO family, extend our deepest condolences and prayers for his wife, children and family during this time.”

Forsyth Sheriff Ron Freeman

"I'm heartbroken by the sudden loss of one of my best friends. Matthew never met a stranger, loved his family and friends, was always going wide open and transformed the tax commissioner’s office into a well-oiled machine. I love you my friend, until we meet again."

Cumming Mayor Troy Brumbalow

“Our community has suffered a tremendous loss this weekend. Matthew Ledbetter was a fantastic human being. A great family man and public servant, he was a strong supporter and friend of Forsyth County Schools. We pray for his wife and children and the many, many friends he has developed relationships with over his lifetime in Cumming.”

Forsyth School Superintendent Dr. Mitch Young

“The lasting impact of Tax Commissioner Ledbetter’s service will resonate in Forsyth County for many years. He took his duties and responsibilities very seriously as he helped to establish, in several ways, what our community is today and what it stands to achieve in the future. Matthew had a big presence, and he would take time to ensure our residents received the best possible customer service. For that alone, he will be remembered as a great leader and public servant. But he will be even higher regarded for the man he was away from his work. My prayers are with his family and the many people that knew him.”

Forsyth County Manager David McKee