William J. Ferguson

William "Cowboy Bill" Ferguson, age 88, of Canton Ohio, passed peacefully from this life into the arms of his loving Savior, Jesus Christ, on November 5, 2025, after battling Parkinson's Disease for many years. He is preceded in death by his parents Wayne and Beryl Ferguson, sister and brother-in-law Francis and Duane Zutavern, brother-in-law Elmer Bihary, nephew Keith Zutavern, nephew-in-law David Harris, and grandson-in-law Sergeant Andrew Mott. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Geni Sue, sister Joyce Bihary, sons William (Patty), James (Becky), grandchildren Angela Okyere, Kelli Mott, Sierra, Jay, Erin, and Jessica, great grandchildren Aliyah, Ethan, and Jayden Okyere, nieces Nancy Harris, Brenda (David) Hayes, and nephews Brian Bihary, and Dale (Cindy) Zutavern.

Bill was born on August 2, 1937, and graduated from Lincoln High School in 1955. As a young man Bill proudly served his country in the Navy Reserves, where he learned discipline, appreciation for service, and deep sense of responsibility. He was a barber in Nashville, Ohio for many years. Bill loved the Lord and showed kindness and gratitude to every person he met. Bill and Geni Sue's marriage was an example of faithfulness and friendship to everyone that knew them. He learned harmonica after retirement and was an inspiration to many. He taught harmonica to children and adults with patience and enthusiasm. He especially loved Gospel and Patriotic music and played at churches, farmer's markets, and community events. Even as he declined, he never lost the ability to pray and give thanks for his many blessings. Bill's favorite scripture was Isaiah 40:31: "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint." His favorite hymns were "Amazing Grace" and "When the Saints Go Marching In." Bill's faith was the anchor of his life.

Bill was a man of integrity, humor, gentleness, and unwavering faith. He was a loving husband, a devoted father, a cherished brother, a mentor, a musician, and a friend to so many. His absence leaves a place that cannot be filled, but his legacy of love, faith, and joy will live on in all who knew him. He will be deeply missed, and his memory will be cherished forever.

Bill is continuing to give of himself having donated his body to NEO Medical University. As per his request, there will be no calling hours or service. If you desire, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Parkinson research at Parkinson.org.