The journey began on August 21, 1943, when Roderick George Ferguson (Slim) was born in Ulster Spring, Trelawny, Jamaica, to Ethel and Curtis Ferguson. He was the sixth child and had 10 siblings: Ruby, Birdie, John, Myrtle, Herbert, Neville, Aubrey, Gerald, Delroy, and Easton. Seven siblings predeceased him.
At an early age, Roderick worshipped at the Ulster Spring Pentecostal Church, pastored by his uncle Cyril Ferguson, where he was baptized in Jesus’ name and received the Holy Ghost. Roderick attended Ulster Spring Primary School. As soon as he turned 17 years old, his father encouraged him to join the police force. This he strongly objected to and his mother, who agreed with him, ‘shipped’ him off to Kingston to live with his sister.
During this time, having not travelled the path his father wanted, he had to take on adult responsibilities at an early age. He enrolled in Kingston School of Accounting and attended for a few months. However, the lack of funds to cover tuition gave him a reality check and he was unable to realize his dream of becoming an accountant. He found employment in the garment industry and later worked at Rapid Vulcanizing for some years. George McKenzie, Larry Byfield, and Berry Byfield were three of his coworkers, church brothers, and friends. After many years, he became an entrepreneur and tried numerous business ventures.
While living in Kingston, Roderick attended Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street. It was there that he met and married the love of his life, Lileth Dorothy McKoy, on July 29, 1967. They became the proud parents of Andrew and Annie (who pre-deceased him), Nikki and Anthony came later. He has been a devoted father and provider for his family. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren.
During his years at Pentecostal Tabernacle Wildman Street, he served in various ministries: Sunday School, Children’s Church, Campus Ministry, and Youth Department. The late Bishop Robert Stewart (then Bro. Bobby) was the youth leader at Pentab, Wildman Street for many years. The baton was then passed to Roderick. He played his role well and served to the best of his ability.
Roderick was also a chorister and a member of the church band where he played the trombone. He was very involved with street meetings. For years, he would make two trips on Sundays to transport the paraplegic members of Pentab, who resided at Mona Rehab, to church and back. Campus Ministry, of which he was in charge, was his passion. He ministered to and transported people from the various institutions to church: teachers from various teachers’ colleges, the nurses from the nursing schools, and the students from Jamaica School of Agriculture.
The ministry at Kingston School of Nursing started with Faye Anderson Whilby. Roderick was driving on Halfway Tree Road one afternoon when she stopped this stranger and asked for a ride. This opened the door to conversation and the opportunity to a great ministry. Those impacted by the Campus Ministry, under Roderick’s leadership, are spread across the globe. Today, you can see a small representation here. They are alumni from several of the institutions of learning served by the campus ministry. They are still serving God faithfully and several of them are ministers. Their presence and tributes speak to the impact one life that is dedicated to God can have.
Between 1985 and 1986, the family migrated to New York. They worshipped at 92nd Street until December 1993, when Pastor Devon Dawson started a work at All Nations Apostolic Tabernacle in Jamaica, New York. Brother Ferguson and his family became an integral part of this new work, where he became the first Sunday School director, and served for years. While living in New York, the family visited Florida frequently, and were always guests of Pastor Robert and Sis. Jennifer Stewart. After 14 years in New York, Roderick announced that it was time to relocate to Florida, where his old friends were. Monica McKenzie was integral in that move as, having already relocated to Florida, she would call Roderick often, telling him that she saw a house for sale. The Ferguson family eventually moved to Florida in 1998 and have been worshipping at Pentecostal Tabernacle in Miami Gardens since.
Roderick’s entrepreneurial skills, his passion for ministry, and service to people were still evident when he moved to Florida. He travelled to Jamaica frequently where he operated a used car business. He was always coming up with projects to turn his ideas and skills into marketable ventures.
Roderick was happiest when he was at home doing the things he loved. Whether it was entertaining, hanging out with friends, playing with the dog, or spending quality time with the family. He loved to laugh and fellowship with friends who meant a lot to him. One of the favorite pastimes when friends came together was playing dominoes. He also enjoyed grilling and serving up sumptuous food which was always a good combination with dominoes. He had a passion for gardening. He planted various fruit trees in his backyard which flourished in the Florida climate. This made Roderick extremely happy as he loved to share his blessings. When it was time to reap, he would pack bags and drop them off at the home of friends, some would be taken to church for distribution, and some would even be mailed.
From Jamaica to New York and then to Florida, the Ferguson home was always open to provide a haven for those who needed temporary accommodation. Sometimes this meant he and his family had to sleep on the floor if necessary. Many who passed through were fed, transported to church, and showered with love. Roderick Ferguson’s hospitable nature and congenial personality made everyone feel welcome and at home.
Such is the nature of the man who walked amongst us – a gentle giant, a lover of people and a man dedicated to serving God and His people.
Roderick Ferguson loved the Lord with passion. His life revolved around church. Throughout the journey of his life he demonstrated this love in service, giving, mentoring, and in his personal relationship with God. His favorite words were, “I always have an offering for church.”
If he could speak to young people today, he would leave the following words: Life is like a path of untrodden snow. Be careful how you tread upon it for every mark will surely show. Do what you can for the Lord when you are young and strong.
Roderick’s living was not in vain as he helped many as he passed along the way. He is now resting in eternal peace with his Lord and Savior – Jesus Christ.
ALLEGIANCE TO THE LAMB
Not, how did he die, but how did he live? Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth Of a man as a man, regardless of his birth.
I remember when I first met Roderick “Slim” Ferguson, we were just teenagers, young folks hanging out in the church yard at Pentab (Wildman Street, Ja.). Indeed, the years have come with its challenges, victories, and growth, but the resolute determination remains – I pledge allegiance to the Lamb with all my strength, with all I am.
That pledge was clearly demonstrated in Slim’s tireless commitment to Campus Ministry. His record will show the countless teachers and nurses that were affected and won to Jesus Christ through this outreach. His passion and commitment were evident as he worked with our youths. He did not hesitate to be involved in any area of the work that promoted the cause of Jesus Christ. It’s hard to forget someone who gave us so much to remember. May he rest in peace.
Hope M. Chin
Pentecostal Conquerors
National Youth Committee
United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica
Front row: Hope M. Chin
Second Row: Paul D. Gallimore, Eustace Clarke, Frank Kellier, Roderick Ferguson, Michael Isaacs
Third Row: Pedro P. Henry, Trevor A. Townsend, Keith Nation, Clarence B.
Shirley Absent: W. Jackson
DEDICATION & COMMITMENT
Today I honor a man who had a passion for souls. I salute a soul winner. I thank the Lord Jesus for the day when Bro. Roderick Ferguson and Sis. Dorothy Ferguson knocked on our gate, in Independence City, and invited my parents to church. My parents never came at that time, but sent me at the age of nine, with the initial condition that they had to take me back after Sunday School. That meant driving 16.1 kilometers, or 10 miles, to take one little girl home. That is what I call a sacrifice. That sounds like he counted the one lost sheep as valuable.
A few times as Brother Ferguson drove that VW bus full of children, the vehicle broke down. I recall vividly one Sunday morning close to what is now Waterford, in Portmore, the vehicle broke down. My inquisitive eyes watched as Brother Ferguson fanned down another vehicle, and watched as he paid the person, and we all piled in. What is the value of a soul?
I could tell many more stories of the goodness of this man and his family. It was time spent with them that I learned to enjoy Scrabble. That was where I saw fellowship in action, many of the brethren gathered there to play board games: Bro. & Sis. Milton Kelly, Bro. & Sis. George McKenzie, Bro. & Sis. Robert Stewart are some that I can recall.
Brother Ferguson impacted the region’s Campus Ministry: Kingston School of Nursing, UHWI School of Nursing, Mico Teachers College, Shortwood Teachers College, and Moneague Teachers College. The impact of that ministry set off fire in my soul and propelled me to start witnessing when I went to college. I had a hunger and thirst to win my peers at school and I did.
Now, some 46 years later, that investment made in me led to a trail of souls (both my parents, my grandparents, cousins, children and friends were saved). I ask all of us today: “What do we do with this legacy left by this man?” Do we rekindle the fire that will erupt in seeking the lost, going out and by all means win some? Does it awaken us to ask that neighbor for a Bible Study or invite them to church? I say today, Lord remind us…. that every soul is valuable and that we may never know the lives that we touch.
To Sis. Dorothy: Thank you, thank you for the tears, time and investment. To Anthony: your grandfather had a heart for God; like David he always turned to Him. What a legacy he has left for you! Passion for God! Soul winner! Valued people!
Winsome Shay
My memory of Bro. Slim is that he was very accommodating and very easy to talk to. Through his ministry, I traveled all over Jamaica to do campus ministry with him. I had a great relationship with the family.
May his soul rest in peace
Kind Regards from Bro. Herland Graham.
Brother Rodrick Ferguson was affectionately known as Slim to all the young ladies of the 1970’s at Shortwood Teachers’ College. He was instrumental to our coming to know, and accept, the message of salvation as presented by the United Pentecostal Church.
We are saddened to learn of his passing but we are sure of where he is and who he is with, Praise God. We commend him for his unwavering dedication and commitment to the campus ministry of the 1970’s. Without this ministry, many of the teachers in training would not have come to the saving knowledge of the Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. We cannot forget his gregarious personality as we viewed his willingness to render help to us without hesitation. He became a very good friend to all of us.
To his family, we convey our deepest condolences. Be encouraged that you will see him again since he is gone to spend eternal life with our God.
To you Sister Dor, a big thank you for your sacrifice and commitment to soul winning.
Much love and blessings.
From Shortwood Teachers’ College Campus Ministry.
During my tenure as National Youth President of The United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica, 1980-1989, my beloved brother Roderick ‘Slim’ Ferguson was a part of this National Youth Committee of 9 men and 1 woman. Prior to that , we were led by the late Bishop S. Robert Stewart, who laid a solid foundation for the Pentecostal Conquerors in Jamaica.
Bro. Ferguson’s portfolio was that of National Campus Ministry Director. His passion for promoting ministry in Schools,Colleges and Universities, was second to none. He was instrumental in blazing the trail of acceptance of the truly Pentecostal form of worship to Teritiary students in Kingston and all across Jamaica. There still remain many precious memories of students then , who are now spiritually strong and continue to speak how eternally grateful they are for the impact he and his wife Sis Dor has had on their lives.
Many years went by and shortly after I had migrated to the United States I was invited to one of his Birthday Celebrations. Unfortunately I could not make it then but was determined to see him again and renew our fellowship.
So on Sunday May 19, this year, I was in ‘his neck of the woods’ and dropped in to see him and his wife Sis Dor. WOW!!! What a time we had, as we hugged many times and reminisced on the great times we shared in youth ministry in Jamaica,. He updated me on his health challenges also . It was a short visit, but oh how precious it was. Little did I know that it was my parting visit.
The work he has done, speaks for him. The many students who are now carrying this gospel message, because of the impact he had on their lives, is now speaking for him. He’s resting in peace and God’s perpetual light is shining through.
From : Bishop Paul and Pastor Rose Gallimore
PENTECOSTAL TABERNACLE, WILDMAN ST. JAMAICA
TRIBUTE TO THE LATE RODERICK GEORGE FERGUSON
Brother Roderick George Ferguson (also affectionately known as, Slim, Rod, and Fergie) joined the Pentecostal Tabernacle (PenTab) Wildman Street family in 1962 as a young man, to continue his spiritual journey. This journey began at the Ulster Spring Pentecostal Church where he was converted in the mid-1950’s by the Acts 2:38 salvation plan. Having been endowed with a friendly and engaging demeanour, Brother Ferguson soon became fully integrated at PenTab where he was to form strong bonds of friendship that would last for a lifetime.
Roderick Ferguson threw himself fully into the life of the assembly, recognizing the privilege that was his to serve in the Kingdom of God. He selflessly contributed to the development of the assembly through his exemplary leadership of the Pentecostal Conquerors Department and his unsurpassed committed devotion to the development of the then Campus Ministry for which he was honoured in the October to Remember celebration that was held by PenTab in 2018. Brother Ferguson also served as a Sunday School Teacher, Assistant Director of the Outreach Department, and member of The Band. He was the first and only driver of the bus that was acquired by PenTab to aid the various ministries of the assembly. Brother Ferguson was a mentor and a friend to many people. His involvement in ministry also extended to the United Pentecostal Church of Jamaica, the National Organisation where he served as District Leader of the Pentecostal Conquerors Department, and the Youth Evangelism Outreach Ministry (YEOM).
It was at PenTab that Brother Ferguson wed the beautiful Dorothy in 1967. Their union produced two biological children, Andrew and Antoinette, yet their home became a safe haven for many young people who were members of the assembly.
Brother Ferguson’s active participation in the life of Pentecostal Tabernacle ended when he migrated to the United States of America in 1986. Notwithstanding this, his connection with and support of the assembly continued throughout the years. We are glad for this opportunity to pay homage to a God-honouring life; to one who we believe overcame, as we all must do, to attain the approval; “Well done, thou good and faithful servant….”
Pastor and Sister Leroy Laing, along with the other members of the PenTab Wildman Street family, extend deep condolences to his dear wife, Dorothy, his son, Andrew, grandchildren, and the other members of the Ferguson family as well as the Pentecostal Tabernacle of North Miami family and wish to assure you of our continued prayerful support.
May his soul now rest in peace.
Leroy S. Laing, Pastor - Pentecostal Tabernacle, Kingston, Jamaica
Pentecostal Tabernacle Intl. Inc.
18415 NW 7th Ave.
Miami Gardens, FL 33169
August 24, 2024 at 11:00am
Officiant
Pastor Omar Williams
ORDER OF SERVICE
Processional
Opening Remarks
Pastor Omar Williams
Prayer Bishop Devon Dawson
Praise & Worship
Pentab Praise Team
Scripture Reading Anthony, Drae-Michael & Andre Ferguson (Grandsons)
Psalm 24
Congregational Song When We All Get to Heaven
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed He’ll prepare for us a place.
Refrain
When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be!
When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory!
While we walk the pilgrim pathway Clouds will overspread the sky; But when traveling days are over Not a shadow, not a sigh.
Refrain
Tributes – The Early Years
Let us then be true and faithful, Trusting, serving every day; Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay.
Refrain
Onward to the prize before us! Soon His beauty we’ll behold; Soon the pearly gates will open We shall tread the streets of gold.
Refrain
When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we’ll sing and shout the victory!
Pastor Leroy Laing – Pentab Wildman Street
Bishop Barrington Goldson - Calvary Tabernacle, NY
Bro. George McKenzie - Lifetime Friend
Song Pastor Winston Miller – Riverside Church
My Soul Has Been Anchored In The Lord
Scripture Selections
Campus Ministry Tributes
Song
Look For Me
Sis. Hermine McFarlane
Bishop Dr. Evan Nepaul – University of the West Indies (Mona) Alumnus [Audio Recording]
Bishop Dafton James – Jamaica School of Agriculture Alumnus
Sis. Faye Whilby - Kingston School of Nursing Alumna
Bro. Steve Powell
Tributes from Bonus Children
Pentab/CARE Tribute
Sis. Sharon Bell [Video Recording]
Sis. Cadine Bramwell
Sis. Lataya Hall
Offering Ashleigh-Jade Williams Violin Selection
At the request of the family, an offering will be collected to fund the Leave A Legacy Programs
Medley of Choruses
Family Tributes
Dr. Dwayne Stewart
Bro. Delroy Ferguson - Brother
Bro. Andrew Ferguson - Son
Sis. Dorothy Ferguson – Wife
Song
Sis. Sasha Gourzong I Cannot Tell, Why He Whom Angels Worship
Message
Prayer for the Family
Recessional
Pastor Sammy Stewart
Elder Leonard Miller
In The New Jerusalem
When the toils of life are over, And we lay our armor down, And we bid farewell to earth with all its cares,
We shall meet and greet our loved ones, And our Christ we then shall crown, In the new Jerusalem.
Refrain
There’ll be singing, there’ll be shouting When the saints come marching home, In Jerusalem, in Jerusalem, Waving palms with loud hosannas As the King shall take His throne, In the new Jerusalem.
Tho’ the way is sometimes lonely, He will hold me with His hand, Thro’ the testings and the trials I must go. But I’ll trust and gladly follow, For sometime I’ll understand, In the new Jerusalem. Refrain
When the last goodbye is spoken And the tear stains wiped away, And our eyes shall catch a glimpse of glory fair,
Then with bounding hearts we’ll meet Him Who hath washed our sins away, In the new Jerusalem. Refrain
When we join the ransomed army In the summer land above, And the face of our dear Saviour we behold, We will sing and shout forever, And we’ll grow in perfect love, In the new Jerusalem.
Refrain
There’ll be singing, there’ll be shouting When the saints come marching home, In Jerusalem, in Jerusalem, Waving palms with loud hosannas As the King shall take His throne, In the new Jerusalem.
PLEASANT MEMORIES
As a new convert attending Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street, Bro Bobby, (Later Pastor Robert Stewart), was the first person who volunteered to transport those of us who were newly converted and were physically challenged. This group included Sis. Carmen, Bro. Bambury, Bro. Jonas, Bro. Herland, and me Sis. Delores.
When Bro. Bobby migrated, Bro. Fergie took over the mantel to transport us to and from church. We used to sing while going home because that’s what Bro. Slim loved for us to do.
He would say, “How come you all so quiet? Sing some songs.” We would do that until the last one of us came off. When Bro. Slim became the youth president, he allowed us to actively participate in the service and we appreciated that.
I could say more but time would not permit me so I’ll just say, “So long big brother!”
Rest in peace Bro. Roderick Ferguson/Bro Slim, from Sis. Delores Mullings.
My dearest friend “Rev”, as l so often called him, was a kind, genuine, and generous friend to me and my family. I am sure I could speak for others also. We often talked about God’s mercies, goodness, and grace. We talked about our gardens and of course shared its contents. On many occasions he would drive to Palm Bay to surprise us with jelly coconuts, breadfruits, mangoes and avocado. It was always a happy time to open the door and see his smiling face.
If unable to make the trip he would call to tell us mangoes are ready. He was warm-hearted, good-spirited, never looked for praises, and was a true friend. We will miss him dearly and he will always be in our hearts. ‘Till we meet again my dear friend. May your soul rest in peace.
Bro. and Sis. Stanley Thompson
Over the years, our relationship evolved into a dad and daughter bond. I will miss your showing up at my office with cool coconut water, June plums and mangoes. Most of all your kind words of encouragement and support to my girls and me over the years will forever be in my heart. Take your welldeserved rest Daddy Slim, you’ve ran a good race and left a beautiful legacy.
Ann-Marie Miller Clarke
WE SHALL MEET
To know Uncle Rod, is to know a good man.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know a man after God’s heart.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know that his faith and his family were his firm foundation.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know the love of God.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know a servant of God.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know the power of forgiveness.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know how to trust God no matter the billows that dash and spray.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know the healing hand of God.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know the faithfulness of God.
To know Uncle Rod, is to know that in spite of devastation, God is supreme.
To know Uncle Rod, iS to say, “O death, where is your victory? O grave, where is your sting?”
To know Uncle Rod, is to say, “Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
By Cadine, on behalf of the Bramwell Triplets
Roderick Ferguson (Bro. Fergie) was a committed Christian, a soul winner, a man who loved God and the things of God. Bro. Fergie was a loving husband to his wife Dorothy, a kind and caring father and grandfather.
He was humorous. I am sure a number of you can attest to this. My memories of his humorous ways are innumerable, but one of my favorites took place the day before he passed. I was visiting him in the hospital and I offered him something to eat. In the classic Bro. Fergie style, he just said, “You eat it!” If you knew him, you know an infectious laugh followed. Little did I know that the curtain was about to close on his humor.
Bro. Fergie was kind. His many acts of kindness that were extended to me are beyond words to tell. He was always willing to help others. On numerous occasions I would reach out to ask his assistance to help someone, especially with accommodation. The conversation always ended positively because whoever the individual, and whatever the situation, he would help. He always offered support and help when needed.
Time will not allow me to tell all his attributes, but your presence here today is a testament of who he was. He was an authentic, one-of-a-kind child of God. I am grateful to have shared his life’s journey. Together with his wife Dorothy, they made me family and for that I will forever be grateful.
He fought for years, taking each day in stride. In the end, God saw it fit to take him. As tough as it is for those left behind, the assurance is, he had an appointment with the Lord and he had to leave. Sleep on my friend, “In the Sweet By and By, We Shall Meet On The Beautiful Shore.”
Hermine McFarlane
FAITHFUL
“Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.” (Matthew 25:21)
Bro. Ferguson was very special to me. He was a faithful servant who opened his doors and heart to everyone, because of his love for people. His house became mine whenever I was in Florida. He never made me feel like I was not part of his family. He was very jovial and loved a good joke. Most importantly he loved the Lord.
I will miss drinking Jamaican coffee together with you.
May your soul rest in sweet peace.
Desreen Marquis
In this time of sorrow, we can draw strength from the incredible life of faithfulness that Roderick Ferguson lived. He lived selflessly. He loved others unconditionally, and through his life, he taught me to do the same. I will forever be grateful to have known him and his precious family since my early teenage years. Because of his faithfulness and commitment to taking children, including me, to Wildman Street Church in his Volkswagen van, I became a part of his and the church family for many years.
My life today would have taken a different path if he had not obeyed God’s direction and been consistently faithful in getting me to Sunday school and church every week. Brother Ferguson, as my siblings and I lovingly called him, became our father figure. He had many words of encouragement for us, keeping us walking the “straight and narrow.” I will forever love and respect him.
I was privileged to briefly live with the Fergusons before going to college. It was during that time that God spared Anne’s life when I walked outside in time to see her behind the van as Brother Ferguson was reversing to go to church. I watched him as he realized what could have happened if God hadn’t stepped in. Brother Ferguson showed in that moment that having complete trust in God was more important than anything else. He taught me what true faith in God was. When it was time to migrate to the United States, Brother Ferguson ensured we made it to the airport on time and had money in our pockets before leaving home.
We are comforted to know that Brother Ferguson is now in God’s loving arms and reunited with Annie, his beloved daughter. Thank you, Roderick Ferguson, for making such a positive impact on my life. You will live on in our hearts.
Faith Nation
I’m still in a state of disbelief that when I go to the house you won’t be there anymore. Both of our families have been intertwined for about the last 60 yrs, and 50 for me. I will truly miss our family visits and just reminiscing on how Kurt and I, as kids, used to go to New York on vacation and visit you and the family.
I was so ecstatic when you guys said you were finally moving to Florida. The last few years have been a blessing to spend with you. You were a unique gentleman just like my dad; you didn’t talk a lot, but your words carried power. You were kind, funny, considerate and above all else a Christian, and a child of God. You took a stand for God, and he honored your loyalty and dedication. Even during the last few years, you were going through your challenges, but you stood strong for God and made it to the house of God as long as you could. I’ve always loved and admired you and I will definitely take care, and be there for Aunty Dor, Anthony & Andrew.
Sleep well Uncle Slim, from the Garrick’s Family.
Love: Nicole Garrick (Nicky)
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dearest Uncle Slim. You will be missed immensely by all of us. There are so many memories we have shared throughout the years: your loving kindness, unending support, words of encouragement, as well as your spiritual guidance. The display of endless love demonstrated the stalwart you were to the family and what it means to be a man after God’s heart.
You bore your illness with great strength and resilience whilst continuously praising and trusting God for his goodness.
Uncle, I will cherish all these moments forever. Although God has called you home, your spirit will carry on here with us. So, until we meet again, I hold you in my heart and mind as a shining example of the best of human kind.
Jennieve Ferguson [England]
Brother Roderick Ferguson, affectionately known as Bro. Slim, was a cherished friend. He profoundly impacted the lives of young people through his pioneering work in establishing the campus ministry of our church across multiple college campuses. As our dedicated youth leader, he guided us with profound wisdom and boundless kindness, shaping our journeys with unwavering faith and love. His laughter resonated in our hearts; his spirit was a guiding light of hope. While he may have departed, his legacy of compassion and joy is eternally etched in our memories.
Rest in peace dear friend. Your radiant light will forever illuminate our hearts.
Donna M. Douglas
A BROTHER & A FRIEND
From the age of 19 we have been acquainted with Roderick. We taught the same Sunday School class at Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street, and did so as one team. We sang on the choir together and after that he became our youth president. My name for him then was Pres.
Migration took us to the big Apple, New York City, where we shared homes with his family at least three times. After that we all moved to Florida and still lived near to each other. We lived as one big family sharing joys and sorrows, so doing this tribute is very heart rending to know he is no longer with us.
So, at this time, it is with very deep sadness that I pay tribute to a close brother and friend. I promised to do my best to take care of his wife, my sister/friend Dorothy, as he requested before his departure. Sleep on my brother, see you around the throne.
Monica & George McKenzie
I have known Roderick ‘Slim ‘ Ferguson for more than 50 years. We became friends through my sister/friend Dorothy who I love dearly.
There are many good memories to consider today… from our summer vacations with our families at the beach, to taking care of him, Andy and Annie, now departed, when Dorothy went overseas. He was a kind, caring, considerate, selfless man who you could not help but love. A real family man.
My heart is saddened by his passing, but I am thankful that, while he was alive, we shared good times, and I told him all the time that I appreciated him.
Rest in peace my brother. Elease Sibblies
Brother Ferguson, also affectionately known as ‘Slim’, married one of my best friends of over 50 years, Lileth Dorothy, which made him my friend also. He was a reliable and protective friend to our family. In Jamaica, if my husband was trying to meet a deadline at church ‘Slim’ was one of the friends that he could ‘lay hold on suddenly’ to say, “please pick up Jen from work for me and take her home.”
His passion for Youth Work, particularly Campus Ministry, was admirable. Many of the lives that he touched are still serving our Lord Jesus today and some of them are Pastors and Pastors’ wives.
In the last three months, it was very hard to see him experience so many medical challenges. This year, my sister-friend, Dor, and I have been
walking through a challenging period of our lives. We share our emotions, encourage each other, and have resolved to put our confidence in our Lord Jesus who has brought us this far and we know that He will see us to the end of our journey.
Slim will truly be missed by our family, and we will always have precious memories of him. He ran well and he was a true friend that would always go the extra mile when needed. He is out of his pain now and resting. I look forward to seeing him again.
Jennifer Ingrid Stewart
Brother Ferguson and I came up together at Wildman Street, Kingston Jamaica. He was my friend and he will be missed by all of us his friends.
To Sis Dorothy:
Love expressed is never lost, for God brings love to life. His hand creates the precious bond between a man and wife. With grace He shelters memories held deep within the heart. To strengthen and to comfort them whenever they’re apart. For God will call them home one day, eternity to gain. His arms outstretched to welcome one, the other to sustain.
Right now, when your loss is so fresh, it may be difficult for you to imagine that this pain will ever go away. But in times, the blessing of God’s unfailing grace will soften the hurt that you’re feeling and bring your heart the peace, comfort, and hope that it needs to heal. I am praying God will comfort you and bless the memories your heart holds.
With prayer and sympathy. Bishop Antonio R. Hibbert Sr.
Proverbs chapter 18 verse 24 in NKJV states, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Fergy was a friend, a person you could count on in any situation. In sorrow, he was a source of strength, and in times of happiness, he was a beacon of joy. He had a way of finding the silver lining in every cloud and reminding us to cherish those that made our lives beautiful.
As we say goodbye to Fergy today, we do so with heavy hearts. But we also do so with a sense of joy, for the times that we have all spent with him, and the memories we made. My friend, although you are not with us in the flesh, your spirit will live on in each of us. As the great Apostle Paul states in Second Corinthians chapter 5 verse 8, “While you are absent from the body, you will be present with the Lord.” Thank you for sharing a piece of your life with us. Enjoy your new residence, as the Apostle also states for Christians to live is Christ, to die is gain. You have gone home before me; see you later my brother, my friend.
“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints.” Psalms 116:15 (KJV)
The Psalmist tapped into an aspect of God’s mind that is at times difficult for us to fathom. How can death be precious when it takes our loved ones from us? It is the toggling of relationships that is at the core of this question. We love our loved ones, but Jesus loves them more. Calling them home hurts. They must leave us to be with the Lord.
David is not careless with our feelings of loss; he just seems to tap into a revelation of truth - to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Bro. Ferguson was a gentle and kind soul. His spirit of hospitality rivaled that of Abraham’s when the three visitors came to visit. He ran and commanded those provisions to be made ready.
This was one of my first interactions with Bro. Ferguson, many years ago, when my family and I spent the Christmas Holidays in Florida. What a spread we had that day; and we couldn’t leave until all the food was gone. Every year after that, when we would see each other at Focus or some other event, we were greeted with a bag.
We were shocked to hear of his passing and extend our condolences to dear Sister Ferguson at this loss. Sis. Todd and I remain prayerful, asking God’s strength, in this very difficult time.
Kingdom Blessing to you,
Bishop-Elect Alan and Sister Allison Todd
THANK YOU
The Ferguson family is taking this opportunity to say thanks to everyone for the expressions of love regarding the passing of our dear beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Thanks for your visits, calls, texts, gifts, meals, and continued prayers.
This is a very difficult time for us but with your love and support, we will be stronger in the Lord.
Roderick – You served well!
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Royal Funeral Service Inc. 17475 NW 27th Avenue Miami Gardens, FL 33056 305-625-6818
