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J. Ferguson Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for J. Ferguson
Chuck Courtenay Sr.
October 8, 2008
It has been over forty years since I shared the stage with Don at the old Barbie's Pavillion. I had a small part in " 110 in the Shade" I was a young high school kid who wanted to someday be a musician and entertainer. After performing now for over the past 37 years I think back on the encouragement and friendly support and advice Don would often give me. I remember seeing Don at a function where I was performing back in the late eighties and he made it a point to commend me on my talent and thanked me for taking his advice to pursue my musical career. I believe his encouragement affected the lives of many. I will always remember his words that night at Barbie's Pavillion, " If you don't believe in yourself and your talent, who else will ? " He was truly a kind and talented man.
We all were blessed to have had him as a friend.
Liz Whitley
October 7, 2008
Sheila & Family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Don was a wonderful person and will be missed by many. I pray that all of you will let God put His arms around you and comfort you during this time. God bless all of you.
Vickie Harris Gale
October 6, 2008
Donnie, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know what a wonderful person your dad was and how much you will miss him. My dad is very ill and I know how hard it is to watch a loved one suffer. I know you have many wonderful memories of such a loving father who thought the world of you. I pray you will have peace that transcends all understanding during such a difficult time. Take comfort in knowing that he will always be watching over you.
Bobbie Shelton
October 5, 2008
Pat and Don, one of my fondest memories from the Little Theatre was Don as "El Gallo" in the Fantasticks. He was fantastick! His talents were many and he will be missed. Cherish the memories. You are lucky to have those films to remember him by as well. God bless.
Tiffany Welsh
October 4, 2008
My deepest sympathies are extended to Shelia, Justin, Jason and the entire Ferguson family during this difficult and sad time time. I first met Don and Shelia (when they got married) and the twins (they were babies) when I was 10 years old through my sister Barbara. That was 22 years ago. The Fergusons became a part of my families extended family. I have such fond memories of holiday dinners, birthdays and vacations together. I remember babysitting the twins after school and would sometimes sleep over. We also went to Mt. Olive Christian Church together. Sheila and Don were the ones who game me my very first bible when I was baptised at 12 years old. It is a mauve color with my name engraved on the front. I remember Don in the Dan Vaden commercials as a child before I even met him. When I did meet him I was so star struck!! I thought it was the coolest thing that I knew him and he was an actor but more than that he was so down to earth and was a great friend to my family for many years. When I think of Don I not only think of the great man he was but I think of the Lincoln Town cars that he loved to drive, car phones, the slot machine you could actually play at his house, all of the pictures of famous people like Burt Reynolds and Carol O'Conner hanging up in his house and the funny answering machine messages he would make. I would always call just to see what new message he had come up with! I remember watching him in The Heat of the Night series drama where he played three different roles at different times where he got killed each time. I remember telling my mom "didn't Don get blown up in a car last week? and this week he is a preacher?!!". I watched most every movie that he was in. I would get so excited to see him and I would tell people that "I know him!!". I knew a celebrity that was a normal person who was so down to earth. I thought it was neat that he would go to the hair dresser to get gray put into his hair so that he could look older for a particular part that he was trying out for a movie. Don and Sheila were at my wedding in September of 1997 and Donnie was the D.J. at the reception. I didn't see him that much after my father passed away in October of 2003. I did see him when my mother and brother passed away in March and June of 2006. I appreciated him paying his respects to my dad, mom and brother. I did have the chance to see him and Sheila a few months ago at the YMCA fundraiser at the Spiva parking lot. I had not seen him in years but I was so glad to. He was thinner and had no hair but was the same person that I knew and loved and he still had that great J. Don smile and personality! I knew he had been sick for many years and fought a long hard fight. I just expected him to beat it becasue he was such a strong person. He will always be fondly remembered and will be deeply missed. I just know that my parents and brother were at the pearly gates waiting to welcome him into heaven. With much love and prayers,
Tiffany (Moody) Welsh
Mickey Wallace
October 4, 2008
Oh gee whiz - J Don gone?! How can it be. I'm out near Seattle until Nov, otherwise I'd've been there to smile in his direction and thank him for being a friend since the 60's. Heartfelt sympathy to Donnie and Pat and the entire family. I loved him!
DANNY FLANDERS
October 4, 2008
DON, I WAS SADDENED TO HEAR OF YOUR DADS PASSING. I REMEMBER MANY GOOD TIMES WITH DON,SR AT THE LITTLE THEATER. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND YOUR FAMILY
Howard Spiva
October 3, 2008
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
Having first met Don when I was still in middle school in the 1970's and "Burt Reynolds days".
Don was an inspirational and talented man. I was flattered when he trusted me, once I became an adult. I am glad that I knew him and I have always considered him my friend.
He was a strong man and fought a strong battle.
I wish his family peace and many happy memories.
Carmel (Garvin) Hearn
October 3, 2008
Dear Pat and Don,
I can still picture your dad performing in Shendandoah on the Little Theatre stage in my mind's eye. And of course, I remember those days of local TV, seeing him work his magic in front of the lens. Phil and I both remember him fondly, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kathleen Linton
October 3, 2008
I was so sorry to hear about the loss of Don. He was a great man and will be greatly missed. I hope that God gives your family a peace during this difficult time.
Andre McKnight
October 3, 2008
Sheila, Jason and Justin,
My prayers are with you as I know your lost is great. What a good man J. Don Ferguson was. Just hold onto your beautiful memories of J.Don. To the twins you had a wonderful role model and I pray that you will walk in what J. Don Ferguson lived.
I will never forget how your DAD was there for me as I went through my sickness.
God Bless You
Andre McKnight (Columbia, S.C.)
Lindsey and Justin Holland
October 3, 2008
I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. I can't imagine what you all are going through, but just keep in mind that he loved you guys so much and that you will see him again one day. He was a great man and had an amazing heart! We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.
K. Goodwin (Nease)
October 3, 2008
Dear Ferguson Family,
I am very sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Don was a great guy and will truly be missed.
Marie Iler White
October 3, 2008
Sheila and Family
I just heard of Don's passing. I am so sorry. He was an outstanding person. I will miss seeing him around town. He is out of his suffering. I first met him at Coastal Cathedral and seeing him many times coming in Wachovia. You have my love and prayers.
Sallie Batson
October 3, 2008
Dear, dear Patty -- My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know that he put up the good fight in his long and harrowing battle against leukemia.
I can't see The Music Man without seeing him as Professor Hill!
Mary Ann Hagan Goldman
October 3, 2008
Pat,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss of your dear father. Please accept my deepest sympathies in this difficult time. I remember as a teenager being so impressed with your dad's career as an actor. He was the first person I knew who was in the Screen Actors Guild.When I finally was able to join the union I thought I'm in the same union as J.Don! He truly was "bigger than life."
May you be comforted by the love of your family and friends.
Shawn Hare
October 3, 2008
This man will be greatly missed!!
A fan
STEVE STAFFORD
October 2, 2008
TO THE FERGUSONS
J. DON WAS A GREAT INSPIRATION TO US ALL. I ENJOYED THE YEARS WE SPENT TOGETHER AT COASTAL CATHEDRAL. I WILL MISS HIM DEARLY. YOU GUYS ARE IN MY PRAYERS.
Mary P. Thomas Arbee
October 2, 2008
Patricia,
I am so sorry to read of your father's passing. I will never forget the Dan Vaden commercials, etc. He was the voice of Dan Vaden. You, my dear, know that you are one of the students at Windsor that I will never ever forget. You hitched a ride with me to school almost every day that I drove pass your home on Windsor Road. I loved you then and I love you now! It was so good to see you again a few months ago when I visited Savannah. I pray that God will take care of you and your family, especially during this time in your life. If you need me, I am an email away.
Jan Norton
October 2, 2008
Sheila & Family,
I was deeply saddened when I heard the news today of J Don's passing. I always looked forward to seeing him when I worked with George Long. He was a remarkable person. I will always remember his kindness. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Teresa West(McHolland)
October 2, 2008
Pat,
My heart felt condolences go out to you. I am sorry for your loss.
Robby Robinson
October 2, 2008
J. Don was a man of many talents who will be greatly missed by family and freinds alike. God bless Don and his family.
Rafe Semmes
October 2, 2008
Pat and Family --
What a long and glorious run your dad had this lifetime!! But even the best Broadway show will eventually come to a close. He made a lot of marks in this world, and a lot of friends too. He lives on in the lives of those of us he touched, and for whom he made the world a better place. We are lucky to have had him with us as long as we did. Call me anytime you need to talk.
long time fan
October 2, 2008
I always enjoyed Mr Ferguson's commercials and his movies. I meet him a couple of times. He was a nice man and will be greatly missed by many of his fans.
Justin Ferguson
October 2, 2008
I lost my best friend yesterday. I just want to say thank you all to the many people that knew him. I consider you more than friends, you guys are family to us all! Its beause of family like you that this family will make it through the toughest time we will ever have to face. He is the greatest man i will ever have known, and an even better father. My mom and grandmother aren't much with the computer but i will be sure to show them this. I thank you all, for in my dads eyes we are all family. This has helped me out more than you'll ever know. Just think, he no longer knows what cancer is, for we will see him soon one day, but im sure he's pretty busy right now. He's running up and down the court now, or practicing his line's for GODS next big play! Thank you all so much. we love you all.
Thomas Maddox
October 2, 2008
Don was one of the best actors and a good friend. My late wife Mary Margaret was in Fantastics with him. He made her feel special. I will always remember his kindness. We will all miss him.
Josh Sheley
October 2, 2008
Over the last ten years I was fortunate to become very close to the Ferguson family. I know that I am a better man because I met J. Don, whom I called Mr. Ferguson. I am hurt from the loss and that is just from a few sleepovers and a trip to myrtle beech with the twins. My heart and prayers go out to you, Mrs. Sheila, Jason, and Justin. - I will really miss you Mr. Ferguson, thank you.
lonnie king
October 2, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathy for the passing of your loved one,Don. He was loved by us all and will be greatly missed. A few years back Johnny Cash passed away and through Johnny is how I met Don. I played a small part (18) none speaking scenes in the movie, "Murder In Coweta County" I played one of Johnnys deputies. I recall many days when we would all set down to our catered lunch and Johnny and his wife June would go on and on about things that had happened to them. I was introduced to Don this way. I never met such down to earth people. They didn't let their success go to their heads. I live in Dublin,Georgia,just 110 miles from Savannah. One of my biggest regreats is that I didn't drive there to see Don. I didn't know about his illness and Im so sorry. I will think of you all, his family and friends. May God bless you and comfort you through this time of sadness. Repectfully I am, Lonnie Lee King
Beth Toomer
October 2, 2008
Sheila and Family,
I met Don when I was a member of the Savannah Youth Orchestra and he always had a smile and a joke to help ease the nerves. I will never forget the times I was welcomed in your home as a FRIEND. He will always be in my thoughts and the good times remembered. My prayers are with you Sheila and your family at this time.
A fan
October 2, 2008
Thanks for the good memories of great cinema.
Your greatest role begins with the best audience ever.
Randy & Sherry Sikes
October 2, 2008
Sheila, Justin and Jason,
I hope you all know how dear J. Don was to Randy and I. What a privilege to have known such an incredible man. With all his achievements, charities, and awards what I'll remember most of J. Don will be his belief in others and his unconditional love as a father and a husband. God Bless.
Greg and Shiela Johnson
October 2, 2008
I remember the times Mr. Don came to John-Wesley to perform his "OneMan" Show. They were always wonderful. We shared many a meal with him there. He will be missed! May God be with the family during this time. Just think...He actually gets to be with some of the characters he so many times played. How happy he must be!
Bill Clontz
October 2, 2008
I remember the funny little things that J.Don put on his answering machine years ago! The humor and zest for life, but most of all I remember talking to him at Basketball games when he officiated games at Brewton Parker College. I was amazed at his down to earth nature, even after he'd made a name in the entertainment field. Heaven has certainly gained a pro, and we have lost a friend.
Dawn Laxton
October 2, 2008
I would like to offer my deepest sympathy to the Ferguson family. I have lived in Savannah all my life (since 1962) and have followed J. Don's career all my life. As an entertainer I was proud to know him for he shared the same love of this beautiful city of Savannah. We will continue as Savannahians to remember and tell future generations about this remarkable man that made us proud to see one of our own live his life to the fullest. The heaven's now have one of Savannah's most beloved actors and great friend.
Dawn Helverson Laxton
Deanna Lang
October 2, 2008
If it wasn't for Mr. Ferguson, the course of radio would not have changed for minorities. He was visionary indeed, and will be truly missed.
Brenda O'Neal
October 2, 2008
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Life long fan.
October 2, 2008
Please accept my most sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. Simple words cannot convey much confort at this time.Only a belief in the Lord,a belief in his teachings,his love,and the love of those around you are available to be called upon .Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Nikki O'Neal
October 2, 2008
WOW- can't believe this has happened. I would just like the family to know how much i care for them and still love and think of them all the time! i had nothing but GREAT memories with J.Don and am so happy that i was able to be a part of his life.
Timothy Beers
October 2, 2008
Sheila and Family,
We will all miss J.Don so much. My friend. He loved you and life so much! God Bless you. God bless J. Don!
MARY LAW
October 2, 2008
SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT J DON HE FOUGHT A COURAGOUS BATTLE AND HE IS IN A BETTER PLACE. I WAS FORTUNATE TO HAVE THE PRIVILEDGE TO CARE FOR HIM AT SUMMIT ON MANY OCCASIONS AND TALK TO HIM AND GET TO KNOW HIM. HE WILL BE MISSED.
(DR. HABERMAN'S NURSE MARY LAW)
Steven Haysman
October 2, 2008
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
bob muncy
October 2, 2008
our prayers are with you for help in time of need your friend bob muncy lawrenceville ga
James L Lang,Jr
October 2, 2008
We never Know Where Or When ,We know That This Life Will End.Don My Friend & (Boss)At wsok Radio Where I Worked For Many Years Sleep On MyBro the In Christ You Have Earned You Seat Beside The Master,You Will Be Missed By Me And My Family,To This Family Stay Strong.GOD Is With You..Sign..Minster James(jimmy(thegator)lang
Merle (Sienkiewicz) Henry
October 2, 2008
Sheila and family,
May God comfort you at this time as only He can. I remember so vividly the many times J. Don spoke at our church, especially the one man show as the apostle Peter. What a talent he had. He will truly be missed. My prayers are with you.
Milly Luker
October 2, 2008
J. Don Ferguson....that name sounded like royalty every time I heard it. You knew whatever he was acting in, talking about, or officiating on, you could expect a royal quality outcome. He seemed always ready for a laugh or serious business or offering motivational words. I loved his movies and him as public icon of great character and heart in and around Savannah. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. I offer my deepest sympathy to his dear family members and all of his many, many friends and fans, like me. His legacy will long be remembered by all. He was a very special person of high morals and great exceptions.
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