Eli Ferguson

Captain Eli Ferguson, fondly known as "Fergy" by family and friends, died on September 29, 2025, at the age of 80, in Falmouth, MA. He is survived by his loyal and loving wife, Stephanie Ballo.

Fergy was born May 13, 1945, and raised in Dartmouth, MA. Despite experiencing a challenging childhood, he went on to have many successes. Following high school, Fergy proudly served his country in the US Coast Guard, and the US Navy.

Fergy was most at home as a resident of Florida, where he lived for 50 years. He was happiest when he was on the water, either fishing or running a boat. Fergy dedicated his career to his passion, the ocean. He developed and ran a sport fishing business in Belize and St. Thomas, he operated a guide business in the Caymen Islands, and was the skipper of many private yachts. His proudest and most fulfilling professional moment was service as Project Manager of the construction of the 136-foot yacht, Antithesis, in Taiwan. Following its construction, he moved the Antithesis to its home in Marco Island, FL where he continued to serve as Master Captain for nearly 20 years.

Fergy was known for running a tight ship! In his professional and personal life, he is remembered for his sardonic humor. He was inventive, and creative, the master of many skills including those away from the water, like his hobby of beekeeping. His bright and curious nature made him a valuable friend. Fergy cast a wide net for anyone who ventured into his orbit. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Fergy is remembered with love, and survived by his wife, Stephanie Ballo; his sons Jonathan Ferguson, and Nathan Ferguson; his brothers Dan, Tom, Andrew, and Jeremiah; and his sisters Cynthia, Julia, Anne, Mae, and Kate.

There will be a memorial service for Fergy on November 1, 2025 from 10:00AM – 12:00PM at Lowdermilk Park, 1301 Gulf Shore Blvd N, Naples, FL.

Captain Ferguson will be scattered at sea in the Gulf of Mexico at a later date.