Sue Wood Ferguson

Sue Wood Ferguson, 86, of Smithfield, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2025, in the loving care of the Hospice House in Smithfield, surrounded by family, friends, and coworkers.

Born March 11, 1939, in Kentucky, Sue grew up in Smithfield. She began her college studies at Meredith College and later transferred to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Sue went on to become a dedicated schoolteacher, a role in which she touched countless young lives.

Sue is survived by her sister, Claire Talley; daughters, Wendy Heard (Bill), Lori Bailey (Doug), and Brooke Sutton (Bill); and sons, Scott Ferguson and Berry Skinner (Darlene). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ken Ferguson; her brothers, Darby Wood and Clark Young; and her daughter, Stacy Ferguson.

Faith and service were central to Sue's life. Alongside her husband, Ken, she was a devoted volunteer at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, giving generously of her time and talents. For the past decade, she also served as a hospice volunteer, offering compassion and comfort to patients and their families.

Sue lived fully and joyfully, always making time for the people and activities she loved most. She was a proud UNC cheerleader and lifelong Tar Heel fan, an avid bridge player, and she cherished her weekends at Atlantic Beach with family and girlfriends. She adored her family and nine grandchildren, enjoyed a good glass of Pinot Grigio, and could often be found on the dance floor.

Sue's life was marked by grace, warmth, and devotion to her family and community, and she will be remembered with deep love by all who knew her. In her final days, she was especially known for her radiant and infectious smile. Sue had a gift for making friends wherever she went and keeping them throughout her life. She was a loyal, fun, and treasured friend to many.

A funeral service to celebrate Sue's life will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 11:00am, at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Smithfield. Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Reception will follow at St. Paul's Episcopal Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church.

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