Ralph Ferguson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ralph James Ferguson, age 92 of Joplin, went to his heavenly home on Friday, April 28, 2017, surrounded by his family.

Ralph was born March 15, 1925 in Granite City, Illinois to the late Sherman Ferguson and Maggie Slawson Ferguson. He graduated from the Granite City Public Schools in 1942, and shortly after enlisted into the U.S. Navy. He was honorably discharged in 1946. Ralph worked as an accountant and office manager for different Chrysler dealerships in Michigan and Joplin prior to retiring in 1990. He also was a minister with the Pentecostal Church of God.

Ralph was a talented organ and piano player and was known by many of his friends as the "Music Man," playing a lot of the golden oldies from the big-band era, Christmas music, and southern gospel.

He was always ready for an adventure, and made many unforgettable memories with family and friends. Ralph loved to travel. He preferred back roads, and encouraged taking the time to see sites along the way, because, “We may never travel this way again.”

Ralph was a true patriot at heart, and wore the colors of our flag with pride. He was privileged to travel with other veterans to Washington D.C. in 2012 as a guest of the Honor Flight Network, whose sole purpose is to honor America’s veterans.

Ralph had an extensive knowledge and love for automobiles. He had a diverse collection of scale models that he enjoyed immensely and could list in detail every vehicle he owned through the years.

Above all, Ralph loved God, his family, and friends, and will be missed for his loving nature and giving spirit. He was known by his children, grand-children, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren to always have a smile, a hug, and a big dish of his “famous” homemade ice cream ready to share.

Ralph married Valeria Marie Lindsey on April 19, 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri. She preceded him in death on June 29, 1995. Their daughter, Linda Pigg, and great-great granddaughter, Olivia Dodson also preceded Ralph in death.

Survivors include two daughters, Marla Crowder and husband, Walt of Magnolia, Texas, Paula Quinn and husband, David of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan; son, Doug Ferguson and wife, Lily of Burnet, Texas; son in-law, Gary Pigg of Joplin; sister, Ruth Hayes and husband, Don of Thayer, Missouri; 10 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and 10 great-great grandchildren; plus, a host of extended family and friends.

A memorial service is planned for Saturday, May 6 at 2:00 p.m. at Parker Mortuary with a visitation to follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to “Partners in Missions” in care of the mortuary.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.