Joseph Cawood Ferguson

November 24, 1945 – November 2, 2026

With heavy hearts and a lifetime of precious memories, the family of Joseph Cawood Ferguson announces his passing on November 2, 2026, at the age of 80.

Joseph was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. To those who knew him best, he was simply Joe. To his children, he was Dad, and to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was someone they loved dearly and will never forget.

Joseph was born on November 24, 1945, to the late Marshal Curd Ferguson and Elizabeth Franzel Ferguson. He was preceded in death by his parents and his two brothers, Ramon Curd Ferguson and James Clayton Ferguson.

Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. His military service was an important part of his life, and his family will always be proud of the sacrifices he made for his country.

In his younger years, Joseph enjoyed golfing and bowling. Throughout his life, he found happiness in simple things, especially playing bingo, attending auctions, and cheering on his beloved Kentucky Wildcats. He was a true Wildcats fan, and anyone who knew him knew where his loyalty stood.

Some of the sweetest memories are the little things that made him who he was. His great-grandchildren affectionately called him the “Coca-Cola Police,” a nickname that will forever bring smiles to the faces of those who loved him. It is those special moments, family stories, and everyday memories that will keep his spirit alive for generations to come.

Above all, Joseph loved his family. He was a father to three children who will forever be grateful for the life and memories they shared with him. Though each had a different relationship with their dad, they shared a love for him that will never fade.

Joseph is survived by his loving children, Barry Joe Ferguson, Kelli Denise Rosenbalm and her husband Chris, and Tonya Lynn Chadwell and her husband Bill.

He also leaves behind his eight cherished grandchildren, Amber Hankins, Elandon Carey, Joseph Hankins, Noah Ferguson, Olivia Brown, Peyton Chadwell, Ross Chadwell, and Victoria Ferguson, along with his 13 beloved great-grandchildren, each of whom was a special part of his life.

He is also survived by his niece, Cherri Ferguson Roper, who held a special place in his heart, and his former wife, Freeda Sue Dial, along with extended family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

Joseph faced his final illness with the love and support of his family. His children stood beside him through some of the most difficult days of their lives, holding on to hope, praying for comfort, and cherishing every moment they had left together.

Although saying goodbye has brought tremendous heartache, his family finds peace in knowing that Joseph was a saved man who believed in God. They take comfort in their faith and in knowing that his suffering has ended and that he is now at rest with his Lord and Savior.

There is no way to prepare for the loss of a father, no matter how many years you are blessed to have him. His children will miss his voice, his smile, his familiar ways, and simply knowing he was there. His absence will be felt in countless moments, but so will the love and memories he leaves behind.

Joseph’s life was not measured by possessions or accomplishments alone, but by the people who loved him, the family he raised, the memories he made, and the lives he touched along the way.

His family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to everyone who offered prayers, visits, calls, and kindness during his illness. Every act of love and support has meant more than words can express.

Graveside Service and Military Honors

A graveside service with full military honors will be held in recognition of Joseph’s service in the United States Air Force.

Friday, November 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

East Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery

2200 E. Governor John Sevier Highway (Highway 168)

Knoxville, Tennessee 37920

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend the graveside service as Joseph is laid to rest and honored for his service to our nation.

To our dad:

We wish we could have had just one more day, one more conversation, and one more chance to tell you how much we love you. We will miss you more than words can say, but we will carry you with us in everything we do. Thank you for being our dad, for the memories, and for the love that will remain long after this goodbye.

Rest easy, Dad. Your battle is over. We love you, and until we meet again, you will always be a part of us.

Forever loved and deeply missed by Barry, Kelli, Tonya, and all who were blessed to know him.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to help with expenses.