Obituary: Billy Ferguson

Billy proudly served his country with distinction. Enlisting in the United States Army in 1981, he completed Basic Training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia. In 1983, Billy graduated from the rigorous Ranger School and went on to serve actively until 1988. During this time, he was assigned to the elite 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment and later to the 2nd Battalion/34th General Staff Security. His commitment to military service continued with the Oregon Army National Guard from 1988-1996, where he served as an Infantry Squad Leader. During his time as a Ranger, Billy was awarded the distinguished Purple Heart along with several other awards. Billy’s dedication to duty and leadership left a lasting impression on those who served alongside him.

Billy continued his career after the military from 1992-2005 with Mid-Columbia Fire and Rescue Volunteer Firefighter EMT-I Lieutenant, in The Dalles. From 1996-2005, he worked with Skyline Hospital Ambulance, in White Salmon, Washington, as a certified EMT intermediate in both Washington and Oregon. He then moved to Eugene, Oregon, in July 2005 when he married his wife, Stacy Ferguson, and worked for Springfield/Eugene DMV. In 2023, he and his wife moved to Grants Pass, where he continued working with Medford DMV.

Beyond his military career, Billy found joy and fulfillment in the great outdoors. An avid outdoorsman through and through, he had a deep love for hunting and fishing. Tying his own flies was not just a hobby but a craft that reflected his patience and skill. Whether it was fishing on the Columbia River for sturgeon or turkey hunting at Polliwog campground with family and friends, it was a time of camaraderie that brought together loved ones in celebration of nature and connection. He and his wife, along with their pups, loved to camp with their travel trailer on the Oregon Coast. They enjoyed walking on the beaches, campfires and watching beautiful sunsets together.

Billy’s legacy lives on through his beloved spouse Stacy Ferguson of Grants Pass; his children William Ferguson and Naomi Ferguson; stepchildren Courtney Kanoho- Kimes and Chase Kanoho and grandson Asher Kimes; mother Sandy Parson; brothers Ernie Ferguson and Mike Ferguson; and sister Kelli Ferguson. He was predeceased by his father Ernest Ferguson Jr. Each of these individuals carries forward memories of Billy’s strength, humor, loyalty, and love.

May his memory bring comfort and joy to all who knew him and inspiration to those who honor his legacy.

A celebration of life will be held on April 26 from 2-4 p.m., with Military Honors at 3:30 p.m., at the Ferguson's residence, 350 Peckerwood Lane, Grants Pass. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a life lived with courage and heart. In lieu of flowers, donations maybe made to Wounded Warrior Project: support.woundedwarriorproject.org

There will also be a memorial service held in The Dalles at the Eagles Lodge on May 17 at 2 p.m.