Marie Paxton Ferguson

Marie Paxton Ferguson passed away on Saturday, December 15, 2018.  During her transition, from her earthly toil to eternal life, she was surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Born in Stuttgart, Arkansas to the late Arthur and Alice Paxton, Mrs. Ferguson was a life-long resident of Stuttgart, Arkansas. She was married for many years to Imon L. Ferguson, Sr., who preceded her in death. To this union were born two children; Alicia Ferguson Smith and Imon Lee Ferguson, Jr., who also preceded her in death.

Marie was an educator for over 40 years in the Stuttgart public school system as an English teacher and Librarian. She began her teaching career in Brinkley, Arkansas and afterwards she taught for many years at Holman High School in Stuttgart, AR. She was an avid reader and fervently used quotes from famous literary authors in her conversations. She was passionate about the importance of keeping the legacy of Holman school in the hearts and minds of the Black community. She felt that it was important to instill in our young people respect, pride and integrity, all characteristics found in the comprised mission that Holman exemplified. Over the years, Mrs. Ferguson garnered multiple recognitions and awards from her many organizations, peers and community. She served as a mentor for many that knew her.

Marie earned a Bachelor Degree from Tennessee State University in Nashville, TN.  She continued her educational pursuits and additional studies at the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, the State College of Arkansas (currently known as the University of Central Arkansas) in Conway, AR and AM & N Pine Bluff (currently known as the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) in Pine Bluff, AR.

Marie was a longtime member of First Missionary Baptist Church where she was an active member; serving in multiple capacities wherever her gifts were needed.  Upon moving to Little Rock, AR, Marie continued her faith in worship until her passing.

She was preceded in death by one son Imon Ferguson, Jr., one brother Allen Williams, and two sisters, Helen Paxton Wofford and Louise Paxton Johnson. She leaves to cherish her memories her loving and dedicated daughter, Alicia Ferguson Smith of Little Rock, AR; daughter-in-law Cynthia Ferguson of Dallas, TX; two grandchildren Imon Ferguson III, and Nathan Barrientos of Dallas, TX; her favorite nephews, Allen Earl Johnson, Sr, Stuttgart, and Allen Earl Johnson, Jr. Little Rock, Arkansas and a special friend Eleanor Johnson Walker.  Along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends.  

In lieu of flowers, all donations are directed to the Marie P. Ferguson Educational Scholarship Fund at First Missionary Baptist Church.

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