He was born on August 27, 1929 in Tyler, TX to James Edward and Bernice Dukes Ferguson. John is survived by his devoted and loving partner, Dr. Mary Beach and her family.* John’s surviving children are John Jr. (Charlotte) of Houston, TX; James (Connie) of College Station, TX; Teresa Auten (Rick) of Mooresville, NC; and, Robert (Donna) of Purlear, NC; and, nine grandchildren;** and 15 great-grandchildren.**
A son, Paul, preceded John in death.
John graduated from Sam Houston State University with a degree in chemistry. During his career, he was employed by Dupont, Ringwood, Dow, PetroTex, and Ciba Geigy (Syngenta). John became vice president of manufacturing and engineering with Geigy Chemical in 1968 and retired from this position and the company in 1980. John holds a patent in the process for the preparation of phosphoric acid esters.
John was his own person possessing, knowledge, charm, wise sayings—sometimes with a Texas flair—and a big heart and hand extended to all. He loved to cook and entertain. He was a life-long learner of history and current events. His general knowledge continually amazed those around him. John was known for his physical strength, love of construction, and willingness to help others. He worked tirelessly helping others redo kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, whatever was needed. He was adored and loved by many. Above all, John loved family—both his own and his extended family with Mary. He always welcomed their visits and wanted to hear about each family member. John loved to travel both in this country and aboard.
When John resided in Greensboro, NC he was active with the Triad Health Project and the Alzheimer’s Association as well as other civic organizations.
A celebration of life will be held November 12, 2016, 12 o’clock noon at St. Francis United Methodist Church, 2965 Kildaire Farm Rd., Cary, NC.
Donations may be made to the Triad Health Project, 801 Summit Ave., Greensboro, NC or St. Francis United Methodist Church, Cary, NC.
* Tom and Michele Beach of Durham, NC, and their children Michael of Durham, NC; and Nicole of New York City; Mike and Winnie Beach of Apex, NC, and their children Kathryn of Asheville, NC; Jaime of Berlin, Germany; and, Sarah a student at NCSU.
**John Ferguson, Jr. Family: Elizabeth and Shayn Robinson of Houston, TX and their children Aubrey, Reede, and Miller; Jonathan and Peggy Ferguson of Wauconda, IL and their child Ezekiel.
**James Ferguson Family: Brent and Kim Ferguson of New Braunfels, TX and their children Ember and Brannon; Jena and Arron Crossly of College Station, TX and their children Audrey, Patricia, and Eric; Micah Ferguson of New Orleans, LA.
**Teresa and Rick Auten Family: Courtney Beck of Charlotte, NC and Christian and Erica Beck of Okinawa and their children Paul and Ella.
**Robert and Donna Ferguson Family: Robert Andrew Ferguson, Jr., and Kimberly Ferguson and her children Chase, Jack, Mason, and Zane.
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