In Memoriam
Doug Lebda
January 29, 1970 – October 12, 2025
Atrium Health Foundation honors the life and legacy of Doug Lebda — a visionary entrepreneur, devoted husband and father, and generous philanthropist whose impact resonates throughout the Charlotte community and across the business world. Doug served as a cherished member of the Atrium Health Foundation Board of Directors, and his presence will be deeply missed by all of us.
Born in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Doug embodied humility, hard work, and a deep sense of community. These values guided his path as the founder and CEO of LendingTree, where his belief that “there has to be a better way” transformed the lending industry. From a frustrating mortgage experience in 1996, Doug built a platform that empowered millions to make smarter financial decisions, bridging technology and trust.
Doug’s legacy extends far beyond his business achievements. Through the Lebda Family Foundation, he championed causes that foster upward mobility, financial wellness, and rural healthcare — ensuring that children in underserved communities received the care they deserve. Most recently, Doug and his family partnered with Atrium Health to establish the Lebda Family Rural Healthcare Program, bringing school-based virtual medical services to thousands of children in North Carolina’s most vulnerable communities. Doug’s generosity also touched Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital — another example of his deep care for children.
Along with the Atrium Health Foundation Board, he served on the board of The Darden School Foundation and proudly became a minority owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
As a passionate mentor, Doug inspired students at his alma maters — Bucknell University and the University of Virginia — believing that entrepreneurship is a mindset fueled by creativity and optimism. He found joy in fishing, regenerative farming, and nurturing life — whether in soil, startups, or communities. Doug’s life was a testament to innovation and compassion.
Doug found his greatest joy in helping others succeed. He will be remembered for his brilliance, generosity, humor, and heart. Atrium Health Foundation offers our deepest condolences to his wife, daughters, extended family, and friends, and sincere thanks for his extraordinary leadership and philanthropy. His life and legacy are immeasurable but will be felt for generations.