Gary Elmer Ferguson

Gary Elmer Ferguson, 73, passed peacefully at home in Washington, Utah on May 1, 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife and children, after stubbornly meeting brain cancer head-on with strength, humor, and unshakable spirit—fighting with power and resolve until the very end. As a devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gary returned to his Heavenly home.

Born on August 28, 1951, in Payson, Utah, Gary was the eldest child of Glen Smith Ferguson and Janet Wheeler Ferguson, both of whom preceded him in death. As the firstborn, he paved the way for his five younger siblings: Larry Ferguson, Kevin Ferguson (deceased), Randy Ferguson, Annette Ferguson, and Sherry Ferguson Custance.

From the very beginning, Gary was full of life and energy — always the first one out the door to play with neighborhood friends. He loved baseball and softball as a kid and went on to wrestle and play football in high school. He had a beloved black Ford muscle car he loved to hot rod all over town. His little sisters especially looked forward to getting picked up from school with the engine rumbling and the windows down. A formative experience came early in life when his Uncle Glen took him horseback riding — sparking a lifelong love of horses that would become central to his identity. After graduating from Lehi High School, Gary served faithfully in the Texas North Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

On March 21, 1975 Gary married the love of his life, Lorneta Hall in the Salt Lake City Temple where they were sealed for Time and Eternity. Together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and adventure celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary shortly before his passing — a testament to their enduring bond, commitment, and partnership through life’s seasons.

Gary and Lorneta were blessed with five children: Malesha Ferguson, Samantha (David) Gaffney, G. Landen (Alaina) Ferguson, Kallie (Dennis) Scott, and Braxton (Mia) Ferguson. He was a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren: Jakob Brady (Cecelia Lynne) Ferguson, Avrie Nichole Lawson, Wyatt James Ferguson, Emma Marie Ferguson, James Evan Ferguson, Emmy Elizabeth Seiple, Allyson Grace Ferguson, Lexi May Ferguson, and Andrew Braxton Ferguson. His legacy extends to the next generation through his great-granddaughter, Minerva Gene Ferguson.

Gary’s work ethic and curiosity took him through many meaningful chapters in his career. He began as a machinist, earning his certification from Utah Technical College. In mid-life, he worked as a ranch hand — including an internship at a private ranch and hands-on roles at two LDS Church ranches. He also served as a vocational teacher for at-risk teens, mentoring with both patience and purpose. Later in life, he found his truest calling as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor, where he helped others find healing and strength. His credentials included associate degrees in Beef Production and Business Management from Rick’s College, bachelor’s degrees in AgriBusiness and General Business from Utah State University, and a counselor certification from the University of Utah. He and Lorneta were certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, and worked together with patients — blending his passion for horses with his deep compassion for others.

Known for his willingness to help and teach anyone in need, Gary offered wisdom, compassion, and a steady presence to those navigating life’s challenges. His career touched countless lives, particularly through his work in addiction recovery, where he often shared the Serenity Prayer as a grounding tool:

“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, Courage to change the things I can, And wisdom to know the difference.”

A true cowboy at heart, Gary found joy and peace on horseback — whether in a dusty corral or high in the mountains. He especially loved taking his kids and grandkids on rides, sharing the rhythm of the trail and his passion for horses with each new generation. His “Cowboy Camp Ins”, all night movie nights and front room camping, became treasured memories for the whole family. Gary was also proud of his many chess sets and loved organizing family chess tournaments, where strategy and playful competition brought everyone together. He found simple joy in watching movies, sipping root beer floats, and sharing a good dad joke or groan-worthy pun. A couple of his classics: “See you around, if you’re not square.” When answering the phone: “Ferg’s Morg — you stab ’em, we slab ’em.” Or “Joe’s pool Hall, 8 Ball speaking”

He gave the best strong, tight hugs, the kind that said everything without words. 

Above all, Gary will be remembered for his warm heart, quick wit, quiet strength, and the kindness he gave so freely. He lived with humility, compassion, and an unwavering love for his family, friends, and the people he served. 

Viewings will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025, from 6:00-8:00 p.m., and again on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 9:30 -10:40 a.m. The funeral service will follow Friday’s viewing, beginning at 11:00a.m. at the Sunrise Valley Ward Church, located at: 1835 South Washington Fields Road Washington, UT 84780

He will be laid to rest in the Washington City Cemetery following the funeral service.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made at McMillan Mortuary in St George.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks: “Our eternal gratitude to all the Doctors and caregivers in Salt Lake City and St. George who laughed and cried with us, and helped us through this trying time. And to the friends and family who provided us with meats, sweets, treats, breads, and cakes. For the texts and phone calls, and for all the thoughts and prayers. The outpouring of love we’ve received is a true testament to the life of caring and compassion Gary lived.”

Funeral services may be viewed by clicking the livestream below.