Christine Ferguson Clarkson

Christine Ferguson Clarkson, 98 years old, of Apex, NC died late Memorial Day evening, Monday, May 26, 2025. Born in Franklin County, Virginia, Christine was the daughter of George Benjamin Ferguson and Nola Emma Akers Ferguson.

Christine was the 10th of eleven children in her family. Along with her younger sister Mickey, she was referred to as one of “the kids” by her oldest brother Raymond and other siblings. She graduated from high school as valedictorian of her class in 1944 and was reminded of that often by family when commenting on her sharp mind, even at 90+ years. After graduation, she moved to Roanoke, VA during the last years of WWII, eventually working in payroll at American Viscose for several years.

Her work friend Edd Clarkson arranged a double date introducing Christine to his older brother Bill, recently returned from the Pacific Theatre, in October 1946. Bill and Christine began dating and as she described it “he was the one for me”. They were married less than 3 years later in June, 1949 and were devoted to each other for 65 years, until Bill’s death in 2014.

Over the years, Christine worked as a teacher’s assistant, served her church at Williamson Road Church of the Brethren in Roanoke and later First Baptist Church of Bluefield, WV, and served many years as a hospital volunteer. Her greatest joy and the focus of her life with Bill was as the mother of 4 children; Carol, Marsha, Stephen and Mark, and she later shared the same love and devotion for her grandchildren, known as “Grandmother” by Tina and Lauren and as “Mudder” by Jonathan, Brian and Emily.

Christine was baptized after a profession of faith at her childhood church on August 4, 1940 and vividly retold the details of that day in moving fashion even decades later. Her Christian faith was central to her being and shone through at all times in her patience, compassion and genuine sweetness. She had a remarkable memory and in her later years was certain to send the first birthday greeting or anniversary greeting to every family member and friend. She dedicated herself completely to Bill’s care in his later years and missed him dearly on his passing in 2014. On Monday, May 26 she met her Savior and was reunited with the love of her life. She leaves us with a legacy of demonstrated faith, hope and love.

Christine is survived by her daughters, Carol Clarkson (Louis) Lobenhofer of Staunton, VA and Marsha Gale Clarkson of Chesterfield, VA; her son, Mark William (Michelle) Clarkson of Cary, NC; grandchildren, Dr. Kristina Lobenhofer (Matt)Tanner of Baltimore, MD, Rev. Lauren (Sam) Chafin Lobenhofer of Chesterfield, VA, Jonathan Clarkson of Nashville, TN, Brian (Kristen) Clarkson of Apex, NC, Emily Clarkson (Baron) Whitley of Apex, NC and 10 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service for family is planned for Saturday, June 21 at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem, VA. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Durham Rescue Mission in Christine’s honor.