Velma Marie Ferguson

Velma M. Ferguson, 90, of Marietta, Illinois, passed away peacefully at 9:20 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at The Villas at Bushnell.
Velma was born on November 1, 1934, in Warren County, Illinois, the daughter of Floyd and Ida (Hettrick) Leighty. On October 23, 1955, she married the love of her life, Robert E. "Bob" Ferguson, in Macomb, Illinois. They shared 57 years of marriage before his passing on June 21, 2013.
She is lovingly remembered by her children, Joan (Bruce) Speer of Port Orange, FL, and Mark (Paula) Ferguson of Bushnell, IL; her grandchildren, Vanessa (Kyle) Banks, Grant (Kaylee) Speer, Curt (Elyssa) Ferguson, Kyle (Grace) Ferguson, Nathan (Harly) Ferguson, Sarah Ferguson, and Lisa (Calvin) Renfroe; and her great-grandchildren, Jaxson, Lyla, and Laney Mae Renfroe, Landon and Cohen Ferguson, Asa, Fiona, and Camilla Banks, Easton Speer, and a new great-grandchild expected in September.
She is also survived by her sister, Judy Leighty of Macomb, IL; sister-in-law, Mary Dilts of Bushnell, IL; and several nieces and nephews.
Velma was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Bob; and three sisters, Mildred Robertson, Anna Mae Leighty, and Melba Leighty.
A 1952 graduate and valedictorian of Bardolph High School, Velma briefly worked in Washington D.C. at the Navy Buildinglater known as the Pentagonbefore returning home to devote herself to her family and farm life. She was a devoted farm wife, a loving mother and grandmother, and a faithful member of Checkrow Community Church, where she served by teaching Sunday School and helping with Vacation Bible School. Velma was also active in the Homemakers Education Association (HEA) and served as an Election Judge in Fulton County for many years.
Her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom she cherished deeply.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 28, 2025, at Checkrow Community Church, with Pastor Brett Fisher and Rev. Earl Beal officiating. Visitation will be held at the church prior to the service from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Bushnell Township Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Checkrow Community Church or Joy Baptist Church. Martin-Hollis Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.martinhollisfh.com.
Visitation
Monday, April 28, 2025
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Checkrow Community Church
3587 E. Checkrow Rd.
Avon,IL
61415
Celebration of Life
Monday, April 28, 2025
11:00 AM
Checkrow Community Church
3587 E. Checkrow Rd.
Avon,IL
61415 To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Velma, please visit our Tree Store.