Colleen Ann Ferns

January 27, 1940 - October 5, 2025

Colleen Ann (Creel-Logston) Ferns of Prospect, Oregon, passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025, in Medford, surrounded by her loving family and caregivers.

Born in The Dalles on January 27, 1940, Colleen spent her early years near Dufur and parts of Washington before the Creel family put down roots in Talent, Oregon. Life on the small family farm along Creel Road suited her perfectly - raising rabbits and chickens, playing drums in the school band, singing in church, and diving into 4-H. Her laughter and curiosity filled every corner of that small farm.

In 1959, shortly after graduating from high school, Colleen married John Thomas Logston, Sr. The young couple built their home in Medford and raised two children, John Thomas Jr. and Julie Ann. With close friends Wayne and Sharon Christian, they founded John-Wayne Construction, where Colleen handled secretarial duties from their home office in the early years.

Faith and music were the heart of her world. At Central Point Church of Christ, Colleen led songs, directed choirs, and, alongside John, guided the youth group for many years. The teens she mentored became like family, and she often said those years were among the most meaningful of her life.

When the family moved to their dream ranch on Laurelhurst Road near Prospect, Colleen found her paradise in the mountains. She poured her heart into restoring their historic cabin, tending her garden, riding horses, caring for the cows and chickens, and hosting lively family reunions. Holidays at “Lost Creek Ranch” felt like stepping back to the late 1800s - complete with woodsmoke, laughter, and Colleen’s touch on every detail.

Life shifted directions, and Colleen married William (Bill) J. Ferns of Prospect, beginning another joyful chapter. Together they immersed themselves in the community she loved - active in local events and Bill’s Masonic gatherings. During her time in the Prospect area, Colleen attended both Cascade Gorge Christian and Prospect Church of the Nazarene. There, Colleen’s voice once again lifted in song as she led choirs, taught Sunday school, and directed Vacation Bible School with her trademark energy and humor.

Her civic spirit ran deep throughout her life. She volunteered with the Medford School PTA, Prospect Home Extension, Prospect Historical Society, and Access, always finding ways to help others. She later earned a certificate in medical transcription, worked for Dogs for the Deaf as a tour guide and administrative assistant, and eventually joined the Prospect School District, where her warmth touched many of the students and staff.

Colleen was known for her creativity, quick wit, and generous heart. Her cookies and breads were legendary, her quilts and cross-stitch gifts treasured keepsakes. She loved books, tole painting, and traveling the country - but most of all, she loved good conversation, shared laughter, and making everyone around her feel at home.

Colleen was preceded in death by her husbands, Bill Ferns and John Logston, her parents, Paul and Nellie Creel, and step-daughter Peggy Ferns. Her children survive her: Tom Logston (Patty) and Julie Logston (Curt Price); step-sons Rick Ferns (Renee) and Tom Ferns (Karen); grandchildren, Conner Smith, Sean Smith (Mia); Chris Ferns, Shannon Ferns, Adam Ferns, Rhonda Ferns; and great-grandson, Elliot Smith.

A celebration of Colleen’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on October 25 at the Prospect Community Hall. Coffee, tea, and cookies will be served following the service, and guests are invited to take home one of Colleen’s favorite books in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Prospect Fire Department (PO Box 32, Prospect, OR 97536) or the Prospect Church of the Nazarene.