Velma Ellen (Terrill) Ferguson

Velma Ellen (Terrill) Ferguson was born August 3, 1927, in Bunker, Missouri, to Robert Lee and Eva Adeline (Patterson) Terrill. She was from a large family, being one of seven children. Her independent spirit was evident from a young age, leaving home at just fourteen to begin working. Velma married Harold Ray Ferguson, on November 3, 1941, and together they built a life filled with love and family. They were blessed with three children, Connie, Edward, and Gail. Velma and Harold shared fifty-one years of lasting memories before his passing on January 11, 1993. Velma was a skilled cook, delighting patrons at various establishments including the Walnut Bowl Restaurant and the Tower Inn. While she did work outside the home, her greatest passion was her role as a wife, mother, and homemaker. Beyond her professional accomplishments and family life, Velma found joy in the simple pleasures. Her nimble fingers were constantly in motion, a testament to her vibrant spirit. She was a gifted quilter, creating beautiful and cherished keepsakes for her children and grandchildren. Her love for gardening endured throughout her life, with last summer’s bountiful harvest of cucumbers and tomatoes serving as a reminder of her enduring vitality. Even in her later years, she maintained her pride in her home, ensuring her sidewalk remained impeccably clean. A longtime member of Gladden Baptist Church, Velma lived her life according to her faith, adhering to her principles with unwavering devotion. Her family remembers her as a woman of impeccable character, always striving to do what was right. Velma passed away peacefully on March 13, 2025, in Salem, Missouri, at the age of ninety-seven years. She is survived by her loving children: Connie Mendenhall of Salem, MO, Edward Ferguson of Salem, MO, and Gail McElfresh and husband Edward of Salem, MO; brother: Kenneth Terrill of Holts Summitt, MO; grandchildren: Harold Mendenhall and wife Angie, Patricia Reeves, Charles Mendenhall, Ellen Rowe and husband Andy, Anita Land, Edward Ferguson II and wife Carolyn, Steven Ferguson and wife Brandi; Micia Conaway and special friend Mike, and Edward L. McElfresh and wife Laura; a host of great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death were her husband: Harold Ferguson; granddaughter: Crystal Piatt; parents: Robert and Eva Terrill; brothers: Lawrence, Amuel, Denver, and Omen; and sister: Desi Camden. Velma lived a life marked by unwavering faith, tireless work ethic, and boundless love for her family. She will be remembered not only for her accomplishments, but also for the quiet dignity and unwavering kindness she showed to all who knew her. Her legacy of hard work, faith, and family love will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have shared her life. Funeral Services for Velma Ellen (Terrill) Ferguson were held Tuesday, March 18, 2025, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Jim Privett officiating. Special Music was provided by Stanley McElfresh singing “Celebrate Me Home” and “I’ll Fly Away”. Serving as Pallbearers were Elijah Conaway, Mike Keegan, Andy Rowe, Zachary Sanders, Edward Ferguson II, and Edward McElfresh. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Velma Ellen (Terrill) Ferguson

August 3, 1927 - March 13, 2025