Obituary
Luke David Ferguson, born Sep. 24, 2003 in Little Rock, AR; was embraced by Jesus, his Savior, on Jan. 11, 2024 in Summerfield, FL. Luke left his early life of torment and disappointment when he and his father John adopted one another on Dec. 19, 2016, in Mountain Home, AR by the Honorable Deeanna “Susie” Layton’s decree. Luke was the apple of his father’s eye, as they embraced their journey together as father and son. As a young and budding lad, Luke received Jesus as his Lord and Savior into his heart. Luke was an all-inquisitive young man. Of course, in his younger years he loved Legos as well as collecting miniature cars, rocks, shells, sticks, and all sorts of treasures from his adventures in the woods, including fighting as a knight in shining armor. As Master Luke matured, video games replaced some of these boyhood qualities. He also was a “young expert” on analyzing steel or metal, naming its type and benefits, usually reflected from a recently acquired pocketknife made of Damascus steel. Luke also admired America’s freedoms and fully embraced our Second Amendment Rights by researching and learning about multitudes of firearms, and at one time thought about being a gunsmith. As boyhood melted away, Luke enrolled in Job Corps, Pisgah Forest, NC where he completed his GED and graduated with honors from the Building & Maintenance Program. It is difficult to determine who was more proud when he returned home to his beaming father at the airport with his certificates in hand!
My Beloved Master Luke, rest in the glorious peace and love of Jesus Christ, our Beloved Savior and Messiah. I will be with you when Jesus calls my name. All my love just for you, Dad.
Luke is survived by his beloved father John R. Ferguson, and Shih Tzu puppy dog Chewbacca, of Summerfield, FL; uncles Bryan (Beth) Weaver, Marcus (Deborah) Weaver, both of Albuquerque, NM; cousins JD, Jordan, Alexa, Chelsea and Daniel Weaver.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, from 4:00 PM- 7:00 PM at Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services-Buffalo Ridge, 3975 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162. Visitation in Washington State will be Tuesday, January 23, 2024 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM at Edwards Memorial, 11020 South Tacoma Way, Lakewood, WA 98499. Graveside service will be Wednesday, January 24, 2024 11:00 AM at Fir Lane Memorial Park, 924 – 176th Street East, Spanaway, WA 98387 with vault interment. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be given to Tim Tebow Foundation, Rescue Them, (https://timtebowfoundation.org/anti-human-trafficking). Arrangements entrusted with BALDWIN BROTHERS Funeral & Cremation Society-Spanish Springs, 352-430-1449. Sentiments are encouraged at www.baldwincremation.com.
Below is the link to see the tribute video:
https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/3292GYH7SFTZZT7T
Service
924 - 176th Street East, Spanaway, WA 98387
924 - 176th Street East, Spanaway, WA 98387
Visitation
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
3975 Wedgewood Lane, The Villages, FL 32162
Me,Luke,and Chris,final group picture before I left job corps
It is with a heavy heart that I write this message, filled with a mix of sorrow and cherished memories. The time we spent together at Job Corps holds a special place in my heart, as it was there that our bond of friendship was formed. Although your physical presence may no longer be with us, your spirit lives on in the memories we shared and the impact you made on all those fortunate enough to know you.
You were more than just a friend; you were a ray of sunshine amidst the challenges we faced within the Job Corps community. Your laughter was contagious, brightening even the dullest of days. Your kindness and compassion knew no bounds, as you always extended a helping hand to anyone in need. Your presence filled the room with warmth and positivity, making our time at Job Corps all the more memorable.
Your absence is deeply felt, and there is an emptiness that cannot be filled. Yet, I find solace in knowing that you are at peace, free from the troubles that burdened you. The memories we shared will forever be etched in my heart, serving as a constant reminder of the joy and happiness you brought into our lives.
Though you may no longer be physically present, your spirit and the impact you made on all of us will endure. We will continue to honor your memory by living our lives to the fullest, just as you did. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts, and your legacy will forever inspire us to be kinder, more compassionate, and to appreciate every precious moment we have.
Rest in peace, dear friend, knowing that your light will forever shine brightly in our hearts. Until we meet again.
With love and fond memories,
Malakai Bacote
(Little Country)
My heart just breaks for you. I did not know Luke but watching the tribute video showed me what a wonderful young man he is. I am praying for you John that all the wonderful memories and love will help you along this long journey. Luke is in the arms of our Lord and you will get to be with him one day in heaven. I wish for you safe travels home and we will see you when you get here. All my love
Lisa G. Herrig
Lakewood, Wa
John, you and Chewbacca are in my thoughts and prayers. Luke can finally rest now and his soul is at ease. Thank you for sharing these pictures...I love seeing you and Luke and the happiness you brought each other. You were both truly a blessing in each other's lives. Sending love, peace and prayers...Kim
I MADE IT HOME
I just wanted to let you know
That I made it home.
Everything is so pretty here, so white,
so fresh, so new. I wish that you could
close your eyes so you could see it too.
Please try not to be sad for me. Try to
understand. God is taking care of me…
I’m in the shelter of His hands.
Here there is no sadness, and no sorrow,
and no pain. Here there is no crying,
and I’ll never hurt again.
Here it is so peaceful, when all the angels sing.
I really have to go for now…I’ve just got to
try my wings.
P.S. – I’ll be the first face you see
when you get here!
Prayers and loving thoughts, Lisa
Sending thoughts to you for peace during this difficult time. Your photos show the love you have for each other and the joy you brought to Luke’s life.
John, I love this quote. We all grieve with you and admire the love and support you shared with Luke. May God continue to bless you in your recovery.
Chewbacca, Luke & Dad
Senior Picture 2022
Luke & Dad waiting at the airport for Luke to leave (for the first time every away from Dad) to start his adventure at Job Corps.
Luke Loved his hamburgers!
Luke & Dad sitting before the Judge completing the adoption papers. See how admiring Luke is looking at Dad! Such a tender heart.
Luke & Dad's first project together, a fire pit. (It still stands today.)
Luke made me an Easter Egg while still in his Arkansas Foster Home.
Luke @ the airport waiting to be delivered to Dad in FL.
Haley delivering Luke to Dad for the first time.
Luke & Dad @ church.
This is a great photo and one of my favorites. Luke is still in his foster home in Arkansas, and is talking with me on the telephone. Look at his joy!
I cannot imagine the pain and heartache you’re feeling. I am praying for your peace and comfort.
God never promises to free us from suffering entirely. Instead, He promises to be with us in our suffering to comfort us and to give us the grace to endure (Deut. 31:8; 2 Cor. 12:8–9).
Our heart goes out to you and your pain.
May you ever be ready with the armor of God when the wolves come around.
Romans 8:37-39
Joshua 23:11
We love you John, may God's face look upon you.
Marcus and Deb Weaver