Rickey D. Ferguson

In Loving Memory of Rickey Ferguson 11/23/1952 – 07/10/2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Rickey Ferguson announces his passing on July 10, 2025, at the age of 72, at his home in Big Sandy, Tennessee. 

Rickey was born on November 23, 1952, to the late James “Jim” and Dorothy Cook Ferguson. After graduating from Trimble School in 1970, he joined the Newbern National Guard, serving his country for six years as a mechanic. He was honorably discharged in 1977 as a Sergeant. He then began a career in farming and construction, drawn by a lifelong love for operating heavy machinery. Some even said he was the best trackhoe operator they had ever seen. 

Rickey spent much of his career working on the banks of the Mississippi River. He retired in July 2019 from Coffey Construction, where he served as manager of Riverfront Limestone. A true jack of all trades, Rickey could remodel an old truck or a home from start to finish. After retiring, he took on a true labor of love: designing and building a lake home for himself and his wife.

Rickey was the cornerstone of his family—a steady hand, a wise voice, and a source of quiet strength. He worked tirelessly to provide for those he loved, never asking for much in return. Whether through long hours on the job, guiding his children with patience and love, or offering a helping hand to a neighbor in need, he lived his life in service to others.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of over 52 years, Beverly Brewer Ferguson; his two children, Aime Whittle (David) of Newbern, Tennessee, and Chris Smith of Houston, Texas. He was Papa to his grandsons, Austin Richardson (Madi) of Dunlap, Tennessee, and Aron Whittle of Newbern, Tennessee; and two great-granddaughters who brought him endless joy, Cora and Ava. 

He also leaves behind his sister, Brenda House of Dyersburg; his brother, Dallas Ferguson of Newbern; his sister-in-law, Vicki Williams of Dickson; and a host of nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Doneta Ferguson. 

Rickey was a man of few words but lasting impact. He taught us that true strength is quiet, true respect is earned, and true love is shown in daily actions. 

 A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home. Family and friends are welcome to attend and celebrate the life of a remarkable man who gave so much and asked so little. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at Johnson-Williams Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in his honor to the Alice & Carl Kirkland Cancer Center, continuing his legacy of care and responsibility. He was, and always will be, our foundation. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Online condolences may be made to the family at johnsonwilliamsfuneralhome.com. Johnson-Willilams Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Rickey D. Ferguson.

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