Born on January 7, 1934, in Greenville, SC, Ray was the son of the late Nita Merck Ferguson and J.D. Ferguson.
Ray was the proud owner of Clear Springs Fishing Lake in Easley, where he built a welcoming place for friends, family, and fellow anglers to gather. A lifelong lover of the outdoors, he especially enjoyed fishing and spending time with his beloved cats, Toby and Buttercup. Earlier in life, Ray worked as an electrician, a trade he took great pride in.
Ray is survived by his loving son, Randall Ferguson (Tammy); his daughter-in-law, Greta Ferguson; grandchildren, Johnny Ray Jr. Ferguson, Matthew Ferguson, Brett Ferguson, Kelly Long, and Jessica Ferguson; several great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Hugh Ferguson, and his sister, Elaine Granger.
In addition to his parents, Ray was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Barbara Lee Gardner Ferguson; his sons, Johnny Ray Ferguson Sr. and Thomas Neil Ferguson; as well as his siblings, Frank Ferguson and Kathleen Bryant.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Interim Hospice and to Ray’s devoted caregivers, Starr Waller and Debra Morris, for their exceptional care, kindness, and compassion. They also wish to extend sincere appreciation to Billy Morris for his many contributions in caring for the home and Clear Springs Fishing Lake.
At this time, the family will be receiving support privately in their own homes.
A visitation for Ray will be held Friday, October 17, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 1:45 PM at Dillard Funerals and Cremation, 2402 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens, SC 29671. A funeral service will occur Friday, October 17, 2025 at 2:00 PM. A committal service will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2410 Gentry Memorial Hwy, Pickens, SC 29671.
Flowers are accepted but donations may be made in honor of Mr. Ferguson to an organization of one's choice.
