James "Jimmy" P. Fergus

Born on April 27, 1946, Jimmy was the son of the late Robert L. Fergus and Grace McSwain Fergus. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert "Bob" L. Fergus Jr., who passed away in 2005.

A lifelong Wilmington resident, Jimmy spent his early years working in the family seafood business, R.C. Fergus & Sons Seafood, affectionately known throughout the area as "the Fish House." The business was a respected cornerstone of the local seafood industry, supplying seafood dealers and restaurants, including the well-known Fergus Ark.

Jimmy's love of music was evident to anyone who knew him. Whether it was R&B, disco, beach music, or old favorites from decades past, music was the soundtrack of his life. One of his greatest passions was dancing, especially Carolina shag dancing. From his participation in the early Azalea Festival shag contests to countless nights dancing at "OD," Jimmy was rarely far from a dance floor. His dancing shoes were always polished and ready to go.

In midlife, Jimmy became co-owner of a furniture manufacturing business, crafting beautiful pencil-post beds, armoires, tables, and other handcrafted pieces. He spent many weekends at the Raleigh Flea Market, where he enjoyed meeting customers, taking orders, and building relationships that often turned into friendships.

Later in life, Jimmy experienced a profound spiritual transformation after finding Pine Valley Methodist Church. There, he came to know his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His relationship with Christ became the foundation of his life. He took great joy in helping others discover the same hope and peace that he'd found. Those who knew him during these years will remember his warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith.

He is survived by his three children: James Perry Fergus Jr. and wife Sherri of Raleigh, NC; Whitney Leigh Fergus-Daughtry and husband Sam of Wilmington, NC, and granddaughter Parker Daughtry; and Haley Fergus Nepini and husband Dennis of Wilmington, NC. He is also survived by his niece and nephew, Shelly Fergus McNeill of Colorado Springs, CO, and Rob Fergus of Henderson, NV; his extended family members Susan and husband Jorge Iglesias and their son Gibson; Grant and Claudia Lattner; and Sean Guerrero, along with many other relatives, friends, and brothers and sisters in Christ whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Jimmy will be remembered for his infectious smile, desire to make people laugh, and most importantly, his steadfast faith. While his friends and family mourn his passing, they take comfort in knowing that he has entered into the presence of his Savior.

As Jimmy would surely remind us, this is not goodbye… He has simply graduated to his eternal home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Pine Valley Methodist Church or to a Bible-based church of your choice.

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:23

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.coblegreenlawn.com