Teri Smith Ferguson

Teri was born on February 26, 1953, in Greensboro, NC to the late Jack and Ann Smith. She began her education in Guilford County Schools and attended East Carolina University. Upon graduating, she started her career in quality assurance and medical records with the State of North Carolina at the Caswell Developmental Center in Kinston, NC. After four years in Kinston, she relocated to Raleigh, NC and spent many years at Murdoch Center in Butner, NC until her retirement.

Teri grew up in Greensboro, NC as the third of four siblings. Her two sisters Gayle and Janis were an enormous part of her life, and their bond was inspiring to all who witnessed it. In addition to her academics, her time was spent in numerous church choirs and at the swimming pool (butterfly was her best stroke). She was a natural leader and served as an officer on many committees and clubs. It was at Grimsley High School that she met the love of her life, Greg. Childhood also introduced friendships that would last a lifetime. Regardless of where life took them, the Greensboro girls would reunite regularly, and they were a tremendous joy in her life.

Teri settled in Raleigh, NC to balance a career with raising her two sons and fostering friendships. She always put God and family first, but still managed to find time to have fun. That often included some combination of family, friends, dancing, and water. Whether boating at Kerr Lake, shag dancing at family beach weeks, or socializing with the “Bridge Club”, we will remember the colorful outfit and cheerful personality that always brought joy to the party. A select few also shared a special friendship, as they supported one another through the joys and sorrows that life can bring. We are all thankful for the gifts she gave us and recognize how thankful we were to receive them.

She faced a variety of health challenges throughout her life that began at an early age. She was a fighter, unwilling to give up until her work on earth was done.

In addition to her husband of 46 years, Teri is survived by her son Drew Ferguson, and his wife, Jane, of Raleigh, NC; brother Wayne Smith, and his wife Candy, of Moline, IL; sisters Gayle Smedberg, and her husband Doug, of Greensboro, NC, Janis Tucker of Greensboro, NC; grandchildren Liza Ferguson and John Graham Ferguson of Raleigh; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Teri was preceded in death by her parents and her son, Graham Ferguson. Without doubt, she and Graham are dancing together in heaven.

A funeral service was held on Thursday, June 29, 2023, at Edenton Street United Methodist Church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Teri's memory may be made to Edenton Street United Methodist Church or Transitions LifeCare.

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