James E. Ferguson
Age 74, of Lansing, MI, passed away April 21, 2023. He was born August 22, 1948, in Chicago, IL, to the late James II and Marie (Osburn) Ferguson.
After being raised in Chicago, Jim moved to Lansing to attend MSU. He worked for the State of Michigan and taught art at LCC. He was an avid supporter of the LGBTQ+ community, and attended and supported the Dhammasala Forest Monastery in Perry, MI. Jim enjoyed cooking, traveling, entertaining guests, studying, teaching, and creating art, especially watercolor. He will be deeply missed.
He is survived by his daughter, Dana (Chris Phelps) Ferguson of Jacksonville, FL, and his brother, Roy Ferguson and partner Mike Winkfield of Chicago, IL. He was preceded in death by his partner Hugh Jones.
A memorial visitation will be held from 12-4 p.m. on Saturday, June 10, 2023, at the Estes-Leadley Greater Lansing Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lansing Community College Foundation, the Salus Center in Lansing, or the Dhammasala Forest Monastery, in loving memory of Jim.
5 Messages to “James E. Ferguson”
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Vicki bauer
April 24, 2023 at 11:39 pmJim, I will miss you forever. You were the best boss ever,
Bob Amman
May 8, 2023 at 8:31 pmJim was a notable figure in our offices, for many years. He was a lot of help for a lot of people. I and many others benefited from his support and friendship.
He also knew quite a few notable and distinguished people outside our office, and outside our jobs.
His contributions stand out in my memory, among the many people I’ve gotten to know, in over 3/4 of a century of being observant.
Anne Dunne
May 25, 2023 at 4:26 pmDana,
My husband and I have been friends with your Dad all the way back to our High School days. We met your Mom when they got married. They had a beautiful wedding in your grandparents yard in Baroda. We have lots of fond memories of both of them. We are so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I would be more than happy to share memrories with you or answer any questions you might have. Feel free to contact me.
Michelle Detering
June 2, 2023 at 10:28 pmMy condolences to Jim’s friends and family. Jim was such a special person. He was the most important teacher I have ever had. He taught me not only about watercolor but also about art history, travel and being a good human being. I will miss him as will countless others.
I will never forget you Jim. Thank you for everything.
Judi Bogart
June 3, 2023 at 2:01 pmMy condolences to Jim’s family and friends. Jim was an outstanding art instructor. I learned so much about art history and watercolor in particular. He was always encouraging us to display our art.
I will miss him dearly. He was a thoughtful and caring friend who was always generous to others.
My sympathies, Judi Bogart