“Honor thy father and mother” Exodus 30:12
In loving memory of Thelma Ruth Ferguson. Beloved mother, wife and animal Grandma. Thelma, 79, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Oak Valley Hospital. Arrived in this world on May 5, 1944 and departed for heaven on April 1, 2024.
Thelma’s journey through life was a multitude of love, caring and kindness toward everyone she met. She would always put others first and sacrifice her own needs. Her profound passion for motherhood was my greatest treasure. The good Lord provided my brother and I the biggest blessing anyone could have, our family. God bestowed us two amazing individuals to be our parents.
Thelma was a pastor’s wife and very active in the church. Sierra Baptist Church was her second home and her second family. She enjoyed playing the piano and captivating the congregation with her beautiful alto voice. She had a deep love for music. She and her church family created countless memories that I know touched her heart.
She was a retired RN from Doctors Medical Center. She gave her time and used her life wisely by offering her care to better the health of her patients. She also showed such love and respect toward her coworkers which was its own reward. Her life as a nurse began in the late 1970s and continued for over 30 years.
Thelma was a graduate of Oakdale High School and Modesto Junior College. She often said her years in both educational institutions was the best time of her life!
Thelma was a very independent and intelligent woman. She carried with her a strong will. She loved hard but with a gentle touch. She left this world a better place and spread love and joy wherever she went.
She joins her husband Joe Edward Ferguson in the glory of heaven forever. She is survived by her son Dr. Joe Ferguson, 58. Her daughter-in-law Chantelle Ferguson, 55. Her daughter Cheryl Ferguson, 53. Her son-in-law Craig Neel, 45. Her grand dogs Loki and Sasha. Her grand bird Charlie. Her sister Frances. Her nieces and nephews: Sandra, Teresa, Billy, Eric, Dwight, Christal, Donnie, and Cherrie. Her great nieces and nephews. Uncle Mike and Aunt Carol. All of her church family and countless friends.
“I know that there is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live.” Ecclesiastes 3:12 For the love of my mother, she did just that!
Her service is at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, 32053 McCabe Road, Santa Nella, CA, Tuesday April 9 at 2 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the church, Sierra Baptist Church, 74 North Lee Avenue, Oakdale, CA 95361; or the ASPCA.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
The Riverbank (Calif.) News
April 10, 2024
