Lyda Ferguson Medlock

Lyda Ferguson Medlock, beloved mother and cherished friend, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2026, at the age of 83 in Apalachicola, Florida. Born on July 31, 1942, Lyda dedicated her life to nurturing others, leaving behind a legacy of love and compassion that will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched. A lifelong resident of Austell, Georgia, Lyda and her pup Hope had recently made their home in Apalachicola to be near her daughter and son-in law, Connie and Mike Sams, where she adored the quaintness and was embraced by the community.

Throughout her career, Lyda's work was centered around caring for others, with her innate kindness and gentle spirit shining through. Her true calling emerged when she opened her in-home daycare, which defined the next chapter of her life. For over 25 years, Lyda embraced the role of caretaker, nurturing countless children who came through her doors. To them, she was not just a caregiver but a guiding light; the bonds she formed with those children transcended the boundaries of mere daycare, and they became family.

In her younger days, Lyda found joy in the great outdoors; she relished camping, hunting, and fishing trips with Buddy, often surrounded by the laughter of friends and family. As the years passed, her interests gracefully evolved. Lyda found contentment in quieter pursuits—playing dominoes with friends, reading books and her daily devotionals, and simply reveling in the beauty of nature. She loved spending her more recent days taking golf cart rides along the bay and sitting on her front porch with her sweet pup Hope, waiving as neighbors passed by or stopped in for a visit. Known to bring laughter to those around her, her spirit was infectious, always eager to share in the wonders of the world with those around her.

Lyda was more than a caregiver; she was a source of unconditional love. Family gatherings were filled with her laughter and warmth, moments to be cherished and remembered. She looked forward to these gatherings, always ready to lend an ear or share a story, her presence a comforting balm to all.

Lyda was preceded in death by her parents, George Jackson Ferguson and Madie Bell Wallace Ferguson; husband, Clifton "Buddy" Medlock; her twin sister, Lynda Newman and brother, Charles Ferguson.

She is survived by her daughter Connie Sams and husband Mike of Apalachicola, Florida; her sweet pup Hope, grand dogs and cat, and a host of special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Though Lyda has departed from this world, the love she poured into her family and the communities she touched will endure forever. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all those she nurtured and loved so deeply. As we remember Lyda Ferguson Medlock, let us celebrate her life—a life richly lived, full of adventure, compassion, and an unwavering desire to uplift others. She will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Arrangements are entrusted to the caring staff of Comforter Funeral Home in Port St. Joe, Florida. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date back near her home in Georgia.