Jim Ferguson
It is with deep sorrow and great love that we announce the passing of James “Jim” Robert Ferguson Sr., who left this world on May 18, 2026, at the age of 66.
Jim was a man who truly loved life. He found beauty in everything — the quiet moments, the changing seasons, the laughter of family and the uniqueness of every person he met. He had a remarkable way of making others feel seen, valued and loved. His heart was gentle, his spirit was kind, and his presence brought warmth wherever he went.
Though titles can describe family, they often fall short of describing love. Jim was a stepfather by name, but in every way that mattered, he was simply Dad. He loved and raised his stepchildren as his own, offering guidance, laughter and unwavering support throughout their lives. His grandsons held an especially treasured place in his heart; though called grandsons, they share a bond with him more like sons — built on deep love, trust and countless cherished memories.
He is also lovingly remembered by Debra Dunn Ferguson, whose bond with him endured beyond marriage. Though life changed their path, the care, respect and love they shared remained steadfast — a testament to a connection that time could not diminish.
Jim leaves behind a family woven together not just by blood, but by devotion, loyalty and love. In addition to his former wife and lifelong friend and caregiver, Debra Dunn Ferguson, he is survived by his mother, Willow Dean Cloar Ballinger; three daughters-of-love, Ashley Dunn Burkett and her husband, Terry, Natalie Dunn Lee and her husband, Leon, and Jenna Dunn Sealy; six grandchildren, Dante Ingram, Gavin Ingram, Liliana Burkett, Kyium Snippe, Zaiden Snippe (Courtney Green) and Lyndon Sealy; a granddaughter that is due on his birthday, Adalina Dunn; his two brothers, William David Everett and wife, Elise, and Jeffery Phillips and wife, Shasta; and one sister, Sandra Jones.
He taught those around him to look for beauty in nature, in one another, and in life’s simplest blessings. His legacy is one of compassion, acceptance and wholehearted love. He will be deeply missed, but his kindness and the love he gave so freely will continue to live on in all who knew him.
Memorial services will be at White-Ranson Funeral Home on Friday, May 22, 2026, at 11 a.m. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of services at the funeral home.
In honoring his memory, may we all strive to see the world as he did — with gratitude, wonder and love.
The Messenger