Phil Jackson Ferguson

Phil Jackson Ferguson, born July 24, 1947, in Haywood County, passed away on February 8, 2026, at Mission Hospital after a brief illness.

Phil was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Martha Fleming Ferguson, to whom he was married for 49 years before her passing; his parents, Jack Ferguson and Wanda Coward Ferguson; and his brothers, Dale Ferguson, Darrel Ferguson, and Ronald Ferguson.

He is survived by his son, Phil Ferguson (Camala); his grandchildren, Jackson Ferguson (Marissa), Brooke Ferguson, and Allie Ferguson; and his great-granddaughter, Lainey Ferguson. He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Crawford, Frances Wyatt (J.D.), Joyce Payne (Doug), Judy Corbin (Mike), and Jackie Parris (Tommy); his brothers, Harold Ferguson (Sandy), Michael Ferguson (Dianne), Darwin Ferguson (Vicky), and James Ferguson (Amy); many beloved nieces and nephews; and his faithful pets, Dooter and Ginger.

Phil was happiest in the woods-whether trout fishing, hunting deer and turkey, or most especially chasing black bear with his hounds. An avid fisherman and an extraordinary houndsman, he was known for his deep knowledge of bear hunting and the respect he had for his dogs and the mountains they roamed. A true mountain man, born and raised in Haywood and Madison counties, he carried a lifelong love for the land and the traditions passed down through generations.

He loved tending his garden and found great joy in watching it grow each season. Phil took particular pride in his potatoes and beans, but he carefully nurtured everything he planted. Gardening wasn't just work to him-it was part of who he was. He enjoyed putting food on the table from the soil he worked with his own hands. Phil also took pride in canning his vegetables, as well as bear and deer meat, making sure nothing went to waste and always having something to share with family and friends.

Phil and Martha shared a lifetime of hobbies and simple pleasures together. In their younger years, they loved bowling and were active in bowling leagues, forming friendships and memories along the way. They enjoyed fast cars, especially Phil's cherished GTX, but those were just a few examples of the many interests they shared side by side throughout their 49 years of marriage. Whether it was a shared activity, a project, or simply time spent together, they did life as a team.

More than anything, Phil was a storyteller. He told stories about life, about lessons learned, and especially about hunting-more hunting stories than anyone many had ever known. Though he once spoke of using a team of horses to pull logs from the woods, those memories were small compared to the countless tales he could tell from a lifetime outdoors. He could recount a bear hunt, a fishing trip, or a sunrise on the mountain with such detail that you felt as if you were right there beside him.

He loved to aggravate people and tell corny jokes, always with a straight face. One favorite memory his family shares is when his granddaughter took him to the eye doctor. As they were checking out, the receptionist commented on how nice it was for his granddaughter to bring him. Without missing a beat, he looked her dead in the eyes and said she was his wife. That was Phil-quick-witted, playful, and always ready to make someone laugh.

Phil also loved sharing his wildlife photographs and breathtaking sunrise pictures from the mountain views he treasured. He would send them to family, friends, and anyone on his contact list-and if he met a complete stranger, he would likely show them too. He was proud of God's creation and wanted everyone to see what he saw.

Funeral services will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 at Panther Creek Baptist Church. Friends and family may gather for viewing beginning at 12:00 (noon), with the funeral service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward, followed by a reception.

Pallbearers will be Jackson Ferguson, Silas Messer, Mark Noland, Cayden Carson, Josh "Red" Plemmons, Heath Woods, and Wilford Messer.

Phil Jackson Ferguson will be remembered for his love of family, the mountains he called home, and the stories, laughter, and memories he leaves behind.

Smoky Mountain Cremations and Funeral Service of Maggie Valley, NC is caring for the family and the online register is available at www.smokymountaincremations.com.