Joe I. Ferguson, 83, went to be with the Lord Jesus Tuesday, January 26. Joe had received Christ as his savior at a revival at 14 years old. Years later he attended college at Bob Jones University graduating with a major in piano and a minor in Spanish. While there he made friends with students who were from Puerto Rico. They inspired Joe to master the Spanish language for the preaching of the gospel. Upon graduation, Joe settled in Puerto Rico and opened the Latin American Christian Academy. While there he became reacquainted with a lady who he had met at Bob Jones. Joe and Billie were married in Puerto Rico. After seven years there they returned to the states where Joe taught classes at UT while completing his Ph.D. He then taught Spanish at Oak Ridge High School. He also taught a college age class at his church and played the church piano for many years. Upon retirement from teaching school, Joe dedicated his time translating Christian materials into Spanish. He did so for Trans World Radio, and for the Creation Museum. He also translated the Dr. J. Vernon McGee Thru the Bible book series into Spanish. In recent months he edited materials for his Spanish church in Lenoir City. Joe Ferguson was a faithful servant of His Lord Christ Jesus and a friend to everyone he met. Family and friends will meet at 10:45 am Friday at Sherwood Memorial Gardens for an 11 am graveside service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Mount Pisgah Printing Ministry, 115 Old Hen Valley Rd. Oliver Springs, TN 37840.
