Derek Ferguson

Derek Martin Ferguson “Fergie Ferg,” 59, passed away January 1, 2023 in his home of Sarasota, Florida. He was born in McKeesport, PA on December 7, 1963 to Richard A. Ferguson and Jammia L. (Tinsley) Ferguson. He is preceded in death by his brother, Jason E. Ferguson.

Derek graduated from McKeesport High school in 1981. After high school he joined the United States Navy in which he proudly served 20 years. He officially retired from the United States Navy in July of 2001. After retiring, he began a new career as a ramp supervisor at Jacksonville International Airport where he was often called “The BEST” ramp supervisor by his coworkers. Derek will be remembered for his infectious smile and loud laughter, his love for his family and friends, his joy in being the coolest Grandpa to “ever do it,” his relentless work ethic and his loyalty to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Derek is survived by his parents, father Richard A. Ferguson; mother Jammia L. (Tinsley) Ferguson; his fiancee, Cecelia Gilbert of Sarasota, FL; two sons, Darnell (JoElla) Edwards of Atlanta, GA, Norral Jones of Sarasota FL; two daughters, Alicia Edwards of Atlanta, GA, Jazzmon (Jaylen) Jackson of Dallas, TX; seven grandchildren, Jasmaine Edwards, Anthony Edwards-Smittick, Taelor Edwards, Donte’ Edwards, Denia Edwards, Elijah Edwards, Diego Edwards; four sisters, Yvonne Sandy Ferguson-Shorter, Camille Annette Herriott, Tonye (Darryl) Pruitt of McKeesport, PA, Natalie(Kenroy) Reed of Orlando, FL; two brothers, Michael Ferguson, Sr. of McKeesport, PA, Paul (Lacecia) Nixon of Cleveland, OH; best friend, Rodrick Adams of Washington, DC; goddaughter, Tisha Shorter of McKeesport, PA and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and lots of friends.

Derek’s Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 13, 2023 at St. Paul AME Church, 1350 Locust Street, McKeesport, PA 15132. Friends and family will be received at 10am until the start of the service at 11am. His military honors to follow.

Family asks that guests wear blue and white to honor Derek.