Gerald Michael Ferguson

 

Gerald Michael Ferguson, better known as Jerry, passed away on October 28, 2023, at Mission Hospital surrounded by family. He was born on February 28, 1948, in Glendale, CA and leaves behind a legacy filled with remarkable experiences and cherished memories.

Jerry was a promising athlete in baseball on the way to a professional career while in high school, only to be cut short when deployed to Viet Nam as a Marine Corps Sniper Scout at the age of 17 1/2. As a marine who bravely served, he exemplified the qualities of courage, honor, and sacrifice. Achieving the honors of Silver Star; multiple Purple Hearts; US Presidential Citation; US Presidential Unit Citation; Marine Corps Combat Medal; Combat Action Ribbon; National Defense Service Medal; Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry; Vietnamese Service Medal with three bronze stars and multiple Vietnamese Campaign Medals.

Jerry has also received a Dan rank of yudanja, a/k/a seventh-degree black belt in karate, training with the best. His professional journey began as a young man in California, where he embarked on a career as a bodyguard for politicians, Hollywood actors (where he received the name of Rambo, as Sylvester Stallone said, “you are the one”), musicians and young royalty. His amicable personality, steadfast watchful eye and ability to form connections enabled him to excel in this role. During his time as a bodyguard, he had a profound love for hockey that would eventually guide him towards other horizons.

Jerry's passion for the sport led him to join the ranks of the renowned L.A. Kings as both a coach and scout. He dedicated himself wholeheartedly to these roles, leaving an indelible impact on the team and players under his guidance.  As life gently guided him along different paths, Jerry found his calling as a K-9 trainer for law enforcement. This role fulfilled his innate desire to serve and protect others while working alongside loyal canine companions.

Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to family. He delighted in spending time with his loved ones and took great pleasure in teaching his children and grandchildren how to fish and hunt. These shared moments created lasting bonds that will forever be treasured by those fortunate enough to have known him.

He is survived by his best friend and former wife of a combined 35 years, Diane Gray of Whittier, North Carolina. Additionally, he leaves behind one son Zachary Ferguson of Waynesville, North Carolina; five daughters: Stacy Ferguson of San Francisco, California; Shannon Ferguson of Elk Grove, California; SharaDee Synder of Sulphur Springs, Texas; Sher Ramirez of Elk Grove, California; Shaina Ferguson of Whittier, North Carolina; as well as a half-brother James Staggs from Oklahoma.  Jerry has 11 grandchildren (by blood or from love he felt blessed), Nick Hunter, Ashlee Jones, Naveah Holmes, Elias Ramirez, Orion Daniels, Willow Ferguson, Alek Norris (Ferguson), Andromeda Ferguson, Seth Norris, Freya Higdon, and McKenzie Clark, as well as a great granddaughter Mila Hunter.  Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Gerald Ferguson and Betty Salas; and brother, Robert Ferguson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Wells Events & Reception Center at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023 with Ryan Jacobson officiating.  The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until 1:00 p.m. prior to service.  Burial will follow at Green Hill Cemetery.

The care of Mr. Ferguson has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Homes of Waynesville.