James Kelley Ferguson, age 76, of Sullivan, MO, passed away Thursday, March 9, 2017 at Life Care Center in Sullivan.
James Kelley, “Jim,” to family and friends was born on July 14, 1940 in Ottawa, KS, to Morris Kelley and Ina Mae (Jones) Ferguson. He was raised and attended school in Kansas, graduating from Richmond High School where he played baseball. Jim honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps where he continued to play baseball. He was a pretty good player and would eventually try out for a major league team, the Athletics. However, the Royals were his favorite team. Jim was a man of many talents. He was employed as an insurance adjuster, painter and later a farm hand. He loved the land and spending time outdoors, gardening and hunting. He was also an animal lover. On November 19, 1978, Jim was married to Sue Merritt and they celebrated 40 years of marriage.
He is survived by his wife Sue (Merritt) Ferguson of Sullivan; three children Lance (Nikole) Ferguson of Brooklyn, NY, Lori Ferguson of Parsons, KS, Linda Ferguson-Emmert of Joplin, MO; two step-children Mike (Laura) Davis and Kathy Ruwwe all of Sullivan; 8 grandchildren; Broc, Nate, Gabbie, Eliana, Race, Isabelle, Vivian and Franklin; one sister; Barbara Greischar of McPherson, KS; numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
James was preceded in death by his parents Morris Kelley and Ina Mae (Jones) Ferguson; and two brothers; Robert and Donald Ferguson.
Services for James Kelley Ferguson will be held at a later date.
All arrangements were under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan and Bourbon, MO.