Agnes Louise Ferguson passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 25, 2025. She was born on September 29, 1930, to Rev. James A. Vaughn, Sr. and Nancy Mae Vaughn in Alton, Illinois.
She married the late Leroy “Roy” Herman Ferguson on September 20, 1947, in Bethalto, Illinois, where they shared 53 years of marriage. Her parents and husband preceded her in death.
She and her husband had three children: Samuel (Peggy) Ferguson, deceased; Jacqueline Eaton, deceased; and Nancy (Jeff) Serafin of Miami, Oklahoma. They were also blessed with four grandchildren: Michelle (Allie) Bacon, Larry Ferguson, Andrea (Justin) Brown, and Christopher Doughty; four great-grandchildren: Jerra (Nick) Vogel, Jacqueline Zangori, Zaccheri Zangori, and William Brown; and three great-great-grandchildren: Bennett Vogel, Harper Vogel, and Ellis Vogel.
She is also survived by her sisters, Betty Vaughn and Wilma Butler as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her stepmother, Alta Vaughn, and three siblings: James (Pat) A. Vaughn, Jr., Martha (Fred) Emshousen, and Rev. Sophia (Bob) Covington.
Agnes worked most of her career years at Bonanza Steakhouse. She began as a cook and worked her way through the company to Regional Store Manager before retiring in 1989. A hard worker by nature, she continued to hold various part-time jobs until the age of 83.
She was an active member of Bethalto Church of God and volunteered with Oasis in Alton and Meals on Wheels. She never met a stranger and was always ready to feed, love, and nurture anyone in need. Agnes was an honest woman who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. She loved her family deeply.
Graveside services are scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, with Pastor Kermit Barker of Cornerstone Assembly of God will officiate.
Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto is assisting the family with local arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked donations be sent to: Integis Hospice Northeast, P.O. Box 1590, Miami, Oklahoma 74355.
