Mary Geraldine Ferguson

Mary V. Ferguson—known to all who loved her simply as Jerry—passed peacefully from this life, surrounded by loved ones, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, and joy. Born in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Jerry spent her childhood in Natchez, Mississippi, where her bright spirit and love of learning first took root. She later pursued her passion for education, graduating from Nichols State University in Thibodaux, Louisiana, and earning a master’s degree from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Jerry dedicated many years to teaching high school students, a calling she fulfilled with exceptional skill, warmth, and humor. She formed lasting bonds with her students, many of whom remember her as a mentor who believed in their potential and inspired them to believe in themselves. A true football fanatic, Jerry could often be found cheering on her beloved LSU Tigers and New Orleans Saints—though she would watch any game, even reruns, with enthusiastic commentary. Her love of animals and her gentle fascination with butterflies were constants in her life and conversations, reminders of her tender heart and appreciation for God’s creation. Years ago, Jerry moved to Gulf Breeze, Florida to be close to her daughter, Jacquelyn, and her treasured grandsons—Trey and Mason—who were, without question, the loves of her life. She delighted in every moment spent with them and was deeply proud of the young men they became. Jerry was a woman of steadfast faith. She held a personal and profound relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ and attended daily Mass at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Gulf Breeze, where she found peace, community, and spiritual strength. She was preceded in death by her grandparents; her father, James N. Verzwyvelt; her mother, Mary V. Verzwyvelt; and her brother, Gary D. “Danny”Verzwyvelt. Jerry’s memory will be forever cherished by her daughter, Jacquelyn Plauche Baker; her fiancé, Barry Phillips; her grandsons Trey Baker (Bri), Mason Baker (Sammie), C.J. Phillips (Bailey), and Colbey Phillips (McKenzie). She is also survived by her siblings: Elizabeth Verzwyvelt of Gulfport, MS; James K. Verzwyvelt (Gail) of Sweeny, TX; Patricia V. André (Richard) of Blanks, LA; Michael St. Romain (Kellie) of Fordoche, LA; Jane V. Casey (Rick) of Pace, FL; and Thomas Verzwyvelt (Kim) of Livonia, LA; along with many beloved nieces and nephews. Jerry was loved deeply and leaves behind a family and community who will forever miss her gentle soul, her laughter, her passion for life, and her unwavering faith. Her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched, the students she inspired, and the family she loved so fiercely. May she rest in the eternal embrace of God’s love.