Joyce Ferguson

Joyce was born at home in Saginaw, Michigan on October 1, 1919. She attended Webber School and to this day could tell stories about her favorite teacher, Miss Bruden. Growing up, Joyce was particularly close to her brother, Willard, "Sonny." He predeceased her. In 1937, Joyce graduated from Saginaw High.

And then .. .Joyce attended Saginaw Business Institute. After working for a short time at Hancock Insurance Company in Saginaw, she took a job at the Dow Chemical Company in Midland, MI. By a series of promotions she ultimately worked for Dr. E. O. Barstow, "the father of magnesium."

And then ... on her last blind date ever (Jeremiah 29:11), she met the love of her life, Hanford Craig Ferguson, in March of 1951. They married in Angola, Indiana on September 1, 1951. A year later she met her in-laws for the first time, traveling to Arkansas to meet Hanford's parents, then on to Texas to meet his family in Ballinger, and then to Austin to tour the University of Texas (Hanford is a graduate) and other sites.

And then ... they had two children, Hilary and David. Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. Her skills as a seamstress enhanced the beauty of their homes and amazed others as she even was able to produce warm winter coats. Many of the clothes she made were recycled into quilts that to this day bring back memories. The family enjoyed annual vacations together .. .from cottages on beautiful lakes in Michigan to a grand road trip across the country in 1969. In retirement years, Joyce and Hanford traveled extensively in the United States and across the world. Special trips included those to Australia and New Zealand; Italy; Great Britain; one following the footsteps of Paul; and another to the Holy Land. For herself, Joyce was involved in Beta Sigma Phi (life member) and church activities.

And then ... in 1975 Joyce found herself chairwoman of the Church Woman United State Assembly. To calm her nerves, she dedicated her efforts to her maternal grandmother Secord who had loved Joyce into the faith. As a young child, Joyce attended Sunday school and church with her grandmother. Later, she and her grandmother together made the communion elements and prepared the linens for the table.

And then ... with a move in 1981 she finally became a Texan - loving Austin and the hill country. She extended her commitment in church activities; completing several Disciple classes (Isaiah 55: 11), experiencing a Walk to Emmaus, and co-founding, with Norma Wright, the Charity Circle. She and Hanford began the Diversity Sunday School class. Recently, in addition to Charity Circle and Diversity, she especially enjoyed Wednesday evening chapel services and Jimmy Johnson's Bible study at Bethany UMC. Her last church event was the annual adult retreat where her storytelling was especially enjoyed.

And then ... Joyce Pequignot Ferguson, 92 years of age, completed her earthly journey to join the heavenly saints on June 1, 2012. Survivors include husband, Hanford Ferguson; daughter, Hilary Ferguson; son, David Ferguson; granddaughters Samantha and Melissa as well as two great grandsons. A granddaughter, Jessica, and daughter-in-law, Linda, predeceased her. Sister-in-law, Genevee, as well as numerous nephews and cousins also survive her.

The family would like to express deep appreciation for the care Joyce received from Christopher House and Hospice Austin. Gratitude also goes out to Bethany UMC pastors, friends, and prayer warriors. Such love and support are beyond words. (Romans 12:10)

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials be made to Bethany United Methodist Church in keeping with Joyce's request.

Services will be held at Bethany United Methodist Church, 10010 Anderson Mill Road, Austin, TX on Tuesday, June 5, 2012 at 10:30 a.m.

To share your memories of Joyce, please visit her memorial at www.cookwaldenchapelofthehills.com.