Picture of the Day - June 14, 2009

Remembering Jerry Ferguson

Photo courtesy of Rachel Spaulding.            (Click on the photo for a larger view) It's been over 36 years since I last set foot on the red clay of the Damascus, Virginia Little League ball field, but to this day I cannot drive past that tiny ballpark or look at a ball, bat or glove without thinking about Jerry Ferguson. Jerry was the coach that everyone loved. Whether you were on his team or not, he always had a big smile, a word of encouragement, and a helpful tip waiting for you. Need help with your swing? Jerry was always more than happy to oblige. Even if he knew you would be using your newly discovered skills against his team the next day, he was still eager to help out. You see, Jerry understood that Little League baseball isn't about winning or losing. It's about learning the fundamentals of the game, and just plain having fun. And if you played on Jerry's team, you always had fun. It didn't matter whether his team was winning or losing, every player got to play in every game. In Jerry's way of thinking, in Little League, enjoying the game was a lot more important than winning the game. And thanks to him, I still feel the same way after all these years. Of course there was lots more to this wonderful man than just his tremendous love for baseball and the kids who played it. Jerry was a loving, devoted family man and a fine Christian, and you could never hope to find a better friend or neighbor. In all my life I have never met a nicer man. And although he had to endure his fair share of heartache and disappointment in life, he never lost his ever-present smile, his friendly disposition, his intense love for life, or his deep faith in God. Sadly for us, Jerry went on to be with the Lord a few days ago. Everyone who knew him absolutely loved him. He is finally at home, but he will surely be missed down here.  In loving memory of Jerry Stuart Ferguson, Sr. June 8, 1939 - June 12, 2009     Visitor Comments... Name: Robert Schwarztrauber Town: Buffalo, NY Beyond the great photos, beyond the wonderful stories from here at home and places around the world, TodaysPhoto.org is such a wonderful place to come and be part of a community that shares and cares. Thank you for sharing the story of Jerry Ferguson here with us today. How fortunate you were, that by the grace of God such a man was there to touch your life. Now, through your sharing, he has given us a lesson and pause to think as well. We can remember Jerry Ferguson, through your words and photos, as one of "The Finest in the Field." Thank you Rick.     Name: Anne McCray Town: Richmond, VA My son played ball on Jerry's team many years ago. Like you, he has never forgotten the man's kindness, concern and generosity. Jerry Ferguson knew what was important in life and what wasn't, and he led those youngsters down the right path. I only had occasion to speak to Jerry personally a couple of times, but that's all it took for me to realize that he was a very special person. The world has lost a great man.     Name: Cheria Rouse Town: Abingdon, VA Although I wasn't involved with Jerry through sports, I knew him very well. Jerry and his wife Ellen, who went to be with Jesus several years ago, were always very special people. Until he was no longer able because of illness, every time we were in the Widener Valley area you could see Jerry walking and he always waved. I have missed Ellen since she went to her eternal home and will miss Jerry as well. God bless their family and we love you all.     Name: Phyllis Helton Town: Bristol, VA If only some of the coaches today could have taken lessons from Jerry Ferguson.   Comment on today's picture  |  View previous "Pictures Of The Day"  |  Submit a photo Why I publish the "Picture Of The Day"