SALEM - Phyllis Louise Ferguson, passed away peacefully on Wednesday July 17, 2024, at her home with her loved ones by her bedside, at the blessed age of 89. She was born on June 29, 1935, in Greenford, Ohio, to the late Howard L. and Dorothea (Cobourn) Feicht, Phyllis grew into a woman of strength and kindness, whose life was a testament to the power of love and family.
Greenford was not only Phyllis's birthplace but also where she blossomed into an accomplished young woman, graduating from Greenford High School in the class of 1953. It was in this close-knit community that Phyllis met the love of her life, William J. Ferguson. The couple wed on September 30, 1956, embarking on a journey of nearly 68 years filled with shared dreams and unwavering partnership.
Phyllis's nurturing spirit extended beyond the walls of her own home. She dedicated many years to caring for the little ones at Quaker Day Care, where she retired in January of 1999. Her work there was not just a job but a calling, as she poured her loving, friendly, and thoughtful nature into the lives of countless children.
Her devotion to her family was unparalleled. Phyllis and William were blessed with a son, Mark William Ferguson, and his wife Cyndi, of Modesto, California; and daughters, Mary Beth Reichelderfer and her husband Jeff, of Circleville, Ohio, Janell Ann Petrucci and her husband Tony, and Janette Bowen and her husband Travis of Salem. Her 10 grandchildren, Sarah, Jamie, Kyle, Anthony, Renea, Brooke, Colton, Rachel, Brianne, and Elisha, along with her 12 great-grandchildren, Sadie, Savannah, Sophie, Riley, Lane, Marlee, Charlie, Bentley, Finleigh, Riggs, Cohen and Cali were the joy of her life. Her love for them knew no bounds, and she cherished every moment spent in their company.
While Phyllis is now reunited with her beloved parents, one daughter, Janell Ann Petrucci, and siblings, Verla Ann, James, Vernon, and Bruce, who predeceased her, she leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion that will continue to resonate through her family and all who knew her.
A woman of faith, Phyllis was a longstanding member of Greenford Christian Church, where she and William had exchanged their wedding vows. Her commitment to her faith was evident in her everyday actions, as she lived out her beliefs with grace and humility.
Those who knew Phyllis will remember her for the love she freely gave and the smiles she brought to the faces of many. Her presence was a comfort, her laughter a melody, and her life a narrative of selfless love and service.
Phyllis's life story is one of enduring love, a guiding light for us all. As we say our earthly goodbyes, we take solace in the memories she leaves behind—a tapestry woven with the threads of her loving, friendly, and thoughtful nature.
The family would like the thank the staff of Southern Care Hospice for all of the love and care given both Phyllis and her family during her time with them.
A celebration honoring Phyllis's life will be held Monday, July 22, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Greenford Christian Church, with Pastor John Bush officiating. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until the time of services on Monday at the church. In remembering Phyllis Louise Ferguson, we celebrate a life well-lived, a heart well-loved, and a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those she touched. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit continues to shine brightly in the lives of her family and friends. Rest in peace, dear Phyllis, until we meet again.
Memorial contributions may be made to Greenford Christian Church, the Greenford Fire Department, the Silver Lining Foundation via the Hope Center in Boardman Ohio, or the Lady Braves Diamond Club (mail checks to 9579 Tarlton Road, Circleville, Ohio 43114) in Phyllis’s memory.
Arrangements are being handled by Stark Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Services.
To view Phyllis's obituary, send condolences or order flowers, visit www.starkmemorial.com.
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