In Memory of

Class of 1970
Sep 29, 1950 - Jul 12, 2026

William “Bill” Lee Ferguson, 75, of Roanoke, Virginia, passed away peacefully surrounded

by the love of his family.



Bill was the kind of man who made the world a better place simply by being in it. He was a

devoted husband, an extraordinary father, a proud PawPaw, a loyal friend, and a beloved

coach. His family was the center of his life, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for the

people he loved. He was generous beyond measure, always willing to lend a helping hand

to anyone in need. If Bill gave you his word, you could count on him.



Known for his infectious laugh and wonderful sense of humor, Bill had an incredible ability

to make people smile. He never met a stranger and had a gift for turning acquaintances

into lifelong friends. Whether he was sharing stories, offering advice, or simply enjoying

time with those around him, his warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone

he met.



Bill proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Green Beret. He carried the

values of courage, integrity, and selfless service throughout his life, and those who knew

him witnessed those qualities every day in the way he cared for his family, friends, and

community.



An adventurer at heart, Bill found happiness wherever there was water, whether at the lake

or the beach, especially when surrounded by those he loved. He also had a remarkable

connection with animals. Family and friends often joked that he was an “animal

whisperer” because animals seemed to instinctively trust and adore him. He had a special

place in his heart for every creature he met, and his cherished dog, Callie, was one of his

most faithful companions.



He is survived by his beloved wife, Gayle Ferguson; his children, Scott Ferguson (Jessica)

and Kristen Ingram (Cory); his bonus children, Jennifer Alleven (Derrick), Zack Trolier, and

Natalie Trolier (Will); his cherished grandchildren, Dakoda Ferguson, Mary Caroline

Ingram, Emma Ingram, Lucy Alleven, and Georgia Alleven; his siblings, Nellie Tolley

(Tommy), Barbara Washburn (Dale), Robert “Pete” Ferguson, and Lois “Susie” Roach

(Gary); his beloved dog, Callie; and many loving nieces, nephews, extended family

members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.



Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Sadie McDaniel Adams and Carl Ferguson, Sr.,

and his brother, Carl Ferguson, Jr.



A visitation will be held at Oakey’s Funeral Home in Vinton, Virginia, on Friday, July 24,

from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Following the visitation, family and friends are invited to

gather at Macado’s Restaurant in Vinton for food, refreshments, and the opportunity to

share stories, laughter, and memories in celebration of Bill’s remarkable life.



In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Angels of

Assisi in Bill’s memory, honoring his lifelong love and compassion for animals.



Bill’s greatest legacy is not found in the places he went or the titles he held, but in the lives

he touched. He showed those around him what it meant to love deeply, laugh often, serve

selflessly, and always be there when someone needed him. His kindness, generosity,

strength, and unwavering love for his family, friends, and animals will live on in the hearts

of all who knew him.