John Earl Ferguson was born on January 9, 1938 in Obion County, Tennessee, to Frank and Rosetta Ferguson (ne’e Netherland) and passed away on August 28, 2021 in Springfield, MO while residing at a skilled nursing facility, Woodland Manor. John was preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings. He is survived by his children: Johnny (Judi), Mike (Karla), Terri (Benet) , and Jeffrey (Naomi) ; six grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren. John proud served his country as an Airman 3rd Class in the Air National Guard of Missouri from January 9, 1955, until he received an Honorable Discharge on March 1st, 1957.

Throughout John’s life he enjoyed fishing, bowling, and spending time with friends and loved ones. He especially loved going on fishing trips to Reelfoot Lake with his sons Johnny and Mike, and fishing at Kentucky Lake with his brothers, friends, and family. Up until retirement in 2006 John was a regular bowler, and participated in many bowling tournaments. Although John wasn’t much of a hunter, he thoroughly enjoyed going to deer camp with his son Johnny, grandson Sean, and other family members. John was an avid supporter of his grandsons’ participation in sports, especially baseball. He would travel many miles to watch and support them. He had a special relationship with his great-grandson, Caleb, and rarely missed attending one of his sporting events. John didn’t miss the opportunity to celebrate special events, life moments, and holidays with family, and was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was a life time supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

John will be missed by all who loved and knew him. May you rest in peace, Papa John.
” I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of John to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

A Memorial Visitation will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, on Friday, September 17, 2021, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with graveside services to follow at 11:00 a.m. in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.