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James Ferguson Obituary
Apr 5, 1961 - Mar 18, 2023
Youngstown
James Edward Ferguson was born April 5, 1961, in Sandusky, to Leo and Leona Ferguson. He was the last of 12 children to be born.
In his lifetime, James exhibited an exquisite talent in music and always used it for the glory of God. His walk with God led him to many beautiful moments such as releasing his album 'Grey Matter,' playing at the Stellar Awards in 2002, starring in Nativity: The Hope in 2016, playing the preacher in The Color Purple in 2021, starring in operas with his daughter, and playing for artists like Cece Winans, Bishop Noel Jones, James Cleveland, Fred Hammond, and many more artists around the globe.
He sustained a full-time career as Minister of Music at churches all over the United States over the course of his life. His pride and joy were his two beautiful daughters, LaNae' Ferguson and Rave' Johnson, whom he loved dearly, the many children he taught and mentored in the Youngstown City School District, traveling, learning, and creating sweet memories with his friends and family.
Towards the end of his life, James was working at East High School in the ED Unit as an assistant teacher and at Rising Star Baptist Church as Minister of Music for the past decade and has inspired many to do great things within the Lord and with themselves.
James was set free from this earth March 18, 2023. He was guided by his parents, Leo and Leona Ferguson, brothers, Melvin Parker and Chuckie, adoptive mothers, Paula Curley, Dolores Brown, and Phyllis Duffey Johnson, and some of his dearest friends.
He was and still is an inspiration to many musicians and one of his favorite scriptures which truly describes him was James 1:1a "James, a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ," for that is truly who he was and will always be remembered for.
Visitation will be 3-6 p.m. Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at James E. Washington Funeral Home. James' service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 5 - his birthday - at Rising Star Baptist Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for James Ferguson
Sponsored by J. E. Washington Funeral Services-Youngstown.
Pastors Edward & Dianna Poindexter
March 27, 2024
To the Ferguson family: Our hearts are broken for you during this time of loss. You have our sympathy and deepest condolences. May your memories of your dear father, brother and friend give you comfort. And may The Good Lord give you His Peace, Strength and Great Grace. You are all in our prayers.
Kaye Burel
April 5, 2023
James Ferguson was my dear friend and classmate at Sandusky High School, many years ago. He was always so talented, kind and could play the piano and sing So beautifully. I always loved to be a part of his music ministry wherever he played or lead a choir. He will forever be missed. Heaven has gained a soldier for the Lord.
Your friend Kaye (Augustus) Burel Class of 1979 S.H.S.
Youngstown East High School Alumni Association
March 31, 2023
On behalf of our alumni, the Youngstown East High School Alumni Association would like to extend their sympathies to the Ferguson family, and offer our sincere gratitude for his dedication towards the education and enrichment of our students, alumni, and community alike. May he rest in eternal peace.
Toddia Ewomazino Abada
March 30, 2023
My Condolence to family and friends of Mr James Ferguson he helped me so much at Choffin Career Center a True Angel always willing to help someone He will be missed and love . heart broken ,Toddia Ewomazino Abada
Evon Alexander
March 29, 2023
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
lisha m salter
March 29, 2023
I met James at the Youngstown Playhouse during the production of The Black Nativity. What an amazing soul. Prayers of strength and condolences to his family.
Victor Arcenio
March 28, 2023
To the Family of Mr. Ferguson.
My deepest condolences for the loss of this wonderful human being with whom I had the honor to work together in the same school building.
My prayers for James´ eternal life. May God keep his family, and his beautiful and wonderful daughters with peace in their hearts
Blessings
Victor Arcenio
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J. E. Washington Funeral Services-Youngstown2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511
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