Mary L. Ferguson

On Sunday, July 26, 2020, Mary L. Ferguson, a loving, peaceful, angelic soul passed away at the age of 75.  Mary was born on March 27, 1945 in Appomattox, VA to Nelson and Fannie Morgan. She was raised in Appomattox County and graduated from Carver -Price High School in 1963. She was a member of  Canaan Baptist Church.  In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her high school sweetheart, Henry “Horse” Ferguson, four brothers, and two sisters.

Upon marriage, she and “Horse” moved to Amherst County and they made it their hometown. She was an impressive seamstress and worked at Courtland Manufacturing for over 25 years. She is survived by four very devoted children; Henry R. Ferguson III, Mark G. Ferguson and his wife Melody, Kimberly Goins and her husband Craig, and David L. Ferguson. She cultivated a very special bond with each of her children and loved each of them so unconditionally. She is also survived by her “big” sister, Ella Ferguson and her husband Alphonso. Their late night telephone chats and laughs are surely to be missed. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Brandon, Marquita, “China”, Brittany and her husband Jaze, Alexandria, Adriana, and Johnathan Jr. It was inspiring to watch her laugh, play games, support, and even take selfies with her grands. Also surviving this very special lady are her four sisters-in-law; Ollie, Delores, Harriet, and Elizabeth. They called each other “sis” and her bond with each of them was remarkable. She also leaves to mourn her passing, nieces and nephews that she loved tremendously; as well as great nieces and nephews, cousins and many people who consider her a precious friend.

This much beloved lady enjoyed her family most of all, especially at the gatherings throughout the year. Christmas is just not Christmas without her hermit cake, fudge, Chex mix, and cheese ball. She also had a very unassuming way of blessing people with her delicacies close by as well as afar. She didn’t like recognition for anything, and was truly one of the most loyal people. She loved her church family and served in many capacities including Trustee, Ladies Club and Usher Ministry. During her quiet moments or alone time, she would do word search puzzles, water her flowers, try new recipes, talk on the phone with her friends or family, write down scriptures, sew, and order and then order some more from QVC.

Her home has always been a beacon of fun and family for the neighborhood. She and Horse graciously “adopted” the Campbell siblings as their own and that bond still exists today.  She truly knew the meaning of sacrifice, never minded helping anyone, and was the best confidant. Everyone loved “Mama”, “Mrs. Ferguson”, “Mom Mary”, “Myrt Lee”, “Mary Lee”, “Nana”, “Gma”, “Grandma”, “Auntie”, “Aunt Mary Lee”.

Mom, since 2017, you have shown us the real meaning of courage. You embraced your cancer diagnosis with a triumph that is to be admired by all. You never complained, but insisted, “I’m fine.” Not once was your faith shaken, you were convinced of all of God’s promises. Your journey is woven in a tapestry of boldness that only you could live.

We love you deeply and we are going to miss the encouraging texts, the reminders to watch the weather, bragging about the Cowboys, the shopping trips, vacations, home cooked meals, stove top popped popcorn, the reprimand to “stop all that giggling”, your infamous “yes indeedy”, and most of all~ that endearing smile.

A public viewing will be held Wednesday, July 29th from 12p.m.-7p.m. at Tharp Funeral Home Madison Heights.  Due to COVID-19, a private celebration of Mary’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, July 30th at the Morgan Family Cemetery in Appomattox.

Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory is assisting the family.

Click here to view Mary’s Life Tribute video.