Erma Jean (Townsley) Ferguson

Erma Jean was born on November 20, 1940, in Paducah, Kentucky, to Elma & Eugene Townsley. Erma peacefully passed away at her Lansing, Michigan, home on November 7, 2022.

Erma Jean is survived by her husband, Joel Ferguson; her five children, Barry, Dori, Jennifer (Christopher), David Sr. (Danielle), and Stacia; four grandchildren, Conrad, Kobe, DJ, and Terryn; sister-in-law, Barbara Neil; two nieces, Yolanda (Shawn) Sereniti and her children, Symone, & Shawn; niece, Tiffany (Darryl) Jalen; and nephews, Quinn Ferguson & Jay (Shari) Townsley and their children, Jay Jr. and Jaleah.

Erma Jean was preceded in death by one brother, J.O. Townsley, and sister Sherry (Leslie).

The family wishes to extend a note of deeply appreciated gratitude to Erma’s caregivers, Sheena Rolon, Barbara Webb, and Angelica Yarbrough, for their love, care and dedication.

Throughout the years, Erma devoted many hours volunteering at the Seventh-day Adventist community service center for people and families in need of clothing, food, and dignity. She also loved to sing in the church choir and enjoyed practicing every Friday night before attending church on Saturday while listening to gospel music from Aretha Franklin, one of her favorites.

Erma was an avid gardener and knew the name of every plant and shrub. Her friends would say she had the biggest green thumb in Lansing. Truth be told, Erma had the most beautiful and tranquil yard on the block. Every plant, bush and shrub were planted with love.

Most importantly, Erma was a loving mother and an incredible cook. Erma made sure her children had a warm breakfast before school and a full belly before bed, and kisses on their boo-boos when they fell.

Erma’s influence will live on through her family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 17, 2022, at the Lansing Seventh-day Adventist Church, 5400 W. St. Joseph Hwy., Lansing.  Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Lansing.  The family will receive friends at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Those who wish may make memorial contributions, in loving memory of Erma Jean, to the Lansing Seventh-day Adventist Community Service Center.

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4 Messages to “Erma Jean (Townsley) Ferguson

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RoseAnn Thoms
November 9, 2022 at 7:13 pm

My dear sweet Erma, we have been friends for more than 30 years. We enjoyed a lot of moments together going to beautiful gardens and discussing herbs, and quiet moments just us two doing girl talk. You were like a sister to me I loved you very much. I will miss you so much. But knowing you are now free from pain and with the Lord helps to let you go.

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Tevis Majors Shaw (cousin) Paducah,KY
November 10, 2022 at 1:10 pm

Cousin Erma had a smile that would light up a room and touch your heart. She will be greatly missed. I have not seen Erma in several years, but I know her beautiful smile and warm heart never changed even in her pain. Our prayers are with her family, may God comfort them in their grief. Love you all.

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Marissa (Majors) Wells
November 10, 2022 at 8:02 pm

Cousin Erma you were a beautiful soul! Always had a smile on your face, and gave the best hugs!! You will be greatly missed!

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Civils Family
November 16, 2022 at 12:18 pm

Our condolences to the Ferguson family and may the Lord grant you peace and strength during this life storm you are going through.

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