Antoinette Patrice Gordon Home Going Celebration Program

“ Andrew is mummy’s toothpaste and I am daddy’s deodorant.”

Let’s Celebrate

September 30, 1974 - April 29, 2016

Pentecostal Tabernacle International, Inc. 18415 NW 7th Avenue | Miami Gardens, FL 33169

Saturday, May 14, 2016 at 10:30 A.M.

Officiating Ministers Pastor S. Robert Stewart Pastor Andrew D. Urshan

A Girl Named Annie - Our Princess “It’s a girl!” they said, “a beautiful girl!” You were a gift from God to love, train, and to cherish. You were a bright star that shone brightly in our home. You were smart, witty, kind and helpful. From that moment when you made your entrance into this world we knew our lives would be changed forever.

You were a special gift.

We recall one day when you were a toddler, your dad went into the vehicle as he was leaving for work and it seems you wanted to go with him.

Unknown to us, you went behind the vehicle and God sent a friend – Faith Leslie, to pull you from the moving vehicle. God protected you because He had work for you to do.

We recall also the battles you would start with your brother, Andrew, and then you would run to daddy for cover. Of course, everyone (including your mother) understands that you were “daddy’s princess” and so daddy would shield you. Not many eight year old children give their parents a serious challenge at that age, but you did. One day you asked a simple question, “Daddy, who will be going to heaven?”

Daddy responded that bad people won’t go but only those who love God. With the innocence of youth you responded “Daddy, if you see me going to fall into hell, please lift me up.” Over the years, your daddy took the responsibility of always “lifting you up” very seriously.

You made friends easily; Jody, Judy-Ann, Richard, Sheri, Robert, Gary, and your cousin Karen were some of your childhood friends. When we migrated to the United States, you met the Davis girls and they were like sisters to you and you developed a special bond with Sharon.

We watched you as you grew into a gorgeous young lady who loved God, family, and people in general. You were born to be an educator. You used to line up bottles as if they were students in your class and you proceeded to “teach” them. We are proud of your achievements; as an educator, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, magazine publisher, all that yet still making working in God’s Kingdom priority.

We don’t know why God called you home so soon. We miss you very much. We have cried and will continue to do so for many days. We are here planning a beautiful home-going celebration for you.

We Love You Princess See you around the throne…

Lord I Want To Die In You Andrew Ferguson

A few years ago I wrote this song as a personal prayer.

My sister loved the lyrics and became my personal “fan club” and encourager. Today the words are eerily appropriate to the circumstances we face. I am confident that my prayer “Lord I want to die in you” was fulfilled for my sister. I dedicate this to her memory.

They tried to hold you down They nailed you to a tree They spat upon your face He did it for you and me Now let’s give Him all the praise And magnify His name Lord I want to die in you Lord I want to die in you Herod tried and failed But you are marvelous and great You conquered death and grave By grace are all men saved So let’s give Him all the Praise And magnify His name Lord I want to die in you Lord I want to die in you And when the trump of God Shall sound across the land And the rapture is at hand And victory is won And we enter the pearly gates And behold Him face to face Lord I want to die in you Lord I want to die in you

We Are Love Bugs To a very special mom‌ Thanks for the years you have been in my life Thanks for being so special For taking me to church For teaching me the things of God For giving me all that I ever needed For loving me every day You will be in my heart forever Your only son Anthony

Enter My Garden Handle with Care...

Sharon Bell – There is so much to say about my BFF We never used the title of “best friends” but our closeness over the years demonstrated it. I adopted Annie as my“little sister” or should I say she adopted me as “big sister” when our family migrated to the United States in 1988. I was 15 and Annie 13 years old. Our entire family was close to the Fergusons, but Annie stuck to me like a “flea on a hound dog” as quoted from a family movie we frequently watched.

At church, Annie would always inquire as to where I was sitting. She wanted to make sure she had a seat beside me. We prayed and cried together. We shopped in the same store. We bought and wore the same outfits. We attended the same college. We sat in some of the same classes. We both became teachers. It was like I couldn’t “shake” that girl. The value of friendship was tested and proven over the years as we celebrated and mourned together.

From being maid of honor at each other’s wedding to being together through our friend Rosemarie’s sickness and passing.

Though we were separated geographically we were never separated emotionally. She was thoughtful, energetic, passionate, ambitious, and just downright CRAZY. Annie was a true and faithful friend and sister who will be missed but NEVER FORGOTTEN. The circumstance of her death is bitter, but the sweetness of her life surpasses it all.

My dear sister/friend - Judy-Ann Sibblies-Beckford Annie, you were like a sister to me…the one I never had, a friend and a confidant. Childhood memories come flooding back of our shared summer vacations in Bengal, St. Ann. I remember us reading, playing together, and having ‘fun in the sun’ all day at the beach. How we looked forward to those times.

I remember visiting New York one summer as a teenager and we went skating and had fun. You even washed my hair for me.

You were always kind and caring and so it was no surprise that you became a teacher.

My mom was your mom and your mom was my mom. In our world, my brother Richard was going to marry you and I should have married your brother Andrew. I even wrote a letter asking my parents for permission to marry him, but that was not to be for either of us.

We remember last year when you called my mom, your Aunt Elease, and told her you loved her. When you visited Jamaica recently,you were excited to see my mom and showed it by smothering her with kisses. My mom could not count the hugs and kisses she got from you.

I love you Annie and I am sorry you are gone from us; I will see you again. You have left me with many precious memories to treasure.

Sleep on my sister…my friend, you will always be in my heart.

Paulette McFarlane – From ordinary to extraordinary Someone has said that it is amazing how ordinary moments become extraordinary when someone passes. It was ordinary then: The two pigtails, the smiles that lit up the room, and the quick steps of a pretty little girl. That little girl, Antoinette (Annie) Ferguson, grew into a beautiful woman; beautiful both inside and outside.

Our conversations were always peppered with Annie’s positivity.

She was determined, knew what she wanted, and worked hard to achieve her goals. She spoke often about her son, Anthony, whom she loved dearly. She spoke about her role as an educator. It was evident that she was a brilliant teacher, caring, nurturing, and a very positive influence in the lives of her students.

God was always in Annie’s conversations. She believed in His grace, mercy, and forgiveness.

I recall her words of condolence and encouragement during my recent bereavement. She reminded me that no matter what, God takes care. Her passing has left a gaping hole in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Our plans to meet in Toronto during this summer was not to be. I will use her own words to encourage us, “God takes care.”

Rest in peace, Annie, we will meet someday over there.

Donna M. Douglas – God is in control You fell asleep without goodbye But memories of you will never die!

I was blessed to share several years living under the same roof with a beautiful person. Her smile lit up every room she entered. She was determined and persistent when she decided to go after her dreams and her goals; her steps were brisk and purposeful. My special memory of Annie is that she never went shopping without first making her list.

She would decide how much she wanted to spend and then ask God to lead her to the places where she would get the greatest value for her money.

One of her greatest strengths was her faith in God. She knew how to seek God for His forgiveness and she knew how to forgive others. Annie knew to let go and let God. It is hard for me to accept that I am writing this tribute saying goodbye, but I smile as I hear Annie saying, “Auntie, God is in control, let us trust Him”. I will miss hearing her voice.

Jody Grizzle – I remember when… …Sleep-overs were a time for us girls to have fun. ….Sundays after church we would get relief from the heat of the afternoon by taking off our stockings in the car; Uncle Slim would yell at us because “that was not ladylike behavior”. …There was a ‘belly-full’ of laughs whenever we were together. ....We had one black dolly aka Ms. Fran on whom we practiced ‘chiney’ bumps and plaits. …We walked down the aisle as flower girls in red and white dresses with the ruffles on the back. …You made your last visit to Jamaica and brought tokens for me and others in our Sunday School class.

You always knew how to make others feel good. You were warm, caring, and genuine. How I wish we could turn back the hands of time. I miss you Annie, you were loved. Rest in peace.

Shauna Gray– Remembering my first friend When I reflect on my childhood, I realize that Annie was the first friend that I had. Although time and distance separated us, the bond we shared still remained. The thought of her passing is surreal. I will always cherish the memories of our precious youthful years together. Annie’s infectious smile and winsome personality have left a place in my heart that the lapse of time will not erase.

The Davis Family –Forever in our memories Port Charlotte, Florida “Sister Annie”, as we affectionately called her, was a dear friend and sister in the Lord. She was patient, loyal, kind, funny…a real pleasure to be around! She would often share candid moments, inspirational thoughts, and even her deepest desires with our family. It was a GREAT privilege to know her, and to be a part of her life! For this we are eternally grateful. Sis Annie…we will not forget you! You are forever engraved in our memories as a woman among women. We love you deeply!

Maxine Mapp –Her legacy will live on Annie was a close personal friend and church sister…actually she was family. Ever since we met Annie in New York her personality, smile, and attitude were greatly admired. We later became very close friends, confidant, laughing buddies, and foodies. She loved our kids and always inquired about their progress. We love Annie and her son Anthony. I became Annie 1 and she was Annie 2, “I am older, Shhhh.” She was my other half.

Annie was God-fearing, faithful, a prayer warrior, funny, witty, kind, caring, and to many a role model. I know tears continue to be shed but where she is right now there is no sorrow, tears, death, pain, or weeping. She is with her creator.

To Mr. and Mrs. Ferguson, Anthony, and Andrew –be comforted in knowing that Annie left her own legacy. She left her mark on this world and that will not be taken away. Sister Annie loved Jesus and had a way to bring out the Jesus in those around her. She will be missed greatly but never forgotten.

MY ANNIE…MY PLEDGE A beautiful person, sincere, and awesome Suddenly my heart ripped in shreds - now there is a void A void to be filled with hope of God’s promises I am heart-broken… I cannot pretend I am hurting because of the death of my friend We had many plans and dreams for the summer Many things to do… places to go Time to catch up on her rest…she said she was tired Time to build our business – time for R&R Summer was to be our time to frolic near and far Who is this woman who has commanded our attention?

She is a child of God who held close His promises A servant who gave a hundred percent day after day Who stopped fighting and left her battles to the Lord One whose faith and perseverance heaven will record Created in the image of God – a living epistle Always caring… giving despite her needs Devoted to her son – his safety her concern Not willing to trade him for material gain Desperately shielding Him from pain Annie my friend right now I am on the edge But your legacy I will preserve – that is my pledge

Hermine McFarlane – She is precious in the sight of the Lord I had the privilege of witnessing the close relationship you had with your dad and mom. The frequent calls that were made each day and night checking on each other and the bond you had with your brother Andrew. I will cherish the moments we spent together on your last visit to Jamaica in April 2015. I am glad I was privileged to take you around to the various places you were desirous of visiting. I was especially moved when you said you would like to attend church the same Wednesday you arrived; you did not allow your tiredness to hinder you from attending the Bible Study and you expressed after the service how blessed you were.

Annie, your laughter was infectious and your smile was very heart warming. You had a gift of giving inspiration and your students were blessed to experience your light.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of the saints. (Psalm 116 v 15)

Gavin McKenzie – A hug I will never forget One of my fondest memories of Annie was being 6 years old living in the Bronx. Annie picked me up from school every day.

One day she was running late and I decided I was going to walk home. With no adult supervision, needless to say I got lost. I finally ran into Annie who had tears pouring down her face. She knelt down before me and said, “Gavin, don’t you ever do that again,” then she gave me the biggest hug that I will never forget.

Annie was just an amazing person to me; she played a major part in my early childhood development. I will remember all the great times we had.

Alicia Drysdale-Cameron – Memories of sleepovers I met Annie when I was 4 years old. We were in the same Sunday school class at Pentecostal Tabernacle, Wildman Street, Jamaica.

We always looked forward to having our potato pudding and orange juice. When it comes on to sleepovers I was only allowed to sleep at the Kelly’s and the Ferguson’s (Annie’s home) and Annie and I had many sleepovers playing with our dolls and doing “dress-ups.” I remember at one sleepover she broke the face of a watch that her dad gave to her and she cried so hard because she had promised to take good care of it. We had to get it repaired before Sunday as she could not afford to disappoint her dad. Although Annie migrated when she was 10 years old, that did not keep us apart as we wrote and talked with each other on the phone. Annie was a diligent and caring person. Sleep on my sweet Annie...see you when we gather around the throne.

Faiza Kedir – You inspired me An extraordinary mother, a loving daughter, an incredible sister, and a marvelous friend. Ann was a blessing to countless lives. I have spent a lot of time reflecting on our relationship; our laughs, our conversations, our goals, our children. Your dedication to Anthony inspired me and motivated me to go above and beyond for my son. You taught me to never give up and to always reach for the stars Ann, although you have departed from this world too soon, your legacy will live on forever. Before you passed away, you shared with me that you received God’s confirmation that Anthony will pull through because he will ALWAYS be surrounded by your love. I pray God continues to grant us the strength to smile as we reflect on your beautiful spirit. I love you so much and I will never forget you.

Michelle Farquharson – God’s got this Our beloved Ann – you were a devoted mother, mentor, friend and spiritual sister. Your belief in the goodness of humanity inspired and drove you to freely and unselfishly give of your talents, time, and treasure for the betterment of others both at the individual and community levels. You were a true visionary whose determined focus was the progressive advancement of all you came in contact with. Young people were special beneficiaries as you empowered, encouraged, educated, and challenged them to achieve their maximum potential.

We loved your bold spirit and “can do” attitude; your big grin and easy laugh; the warmth that radiated from your eyes; and your full bodied hugs. No one enjoyed a good laugh as much you did and soon everyone else would be laughing too. Your kindness and compassion knew no limits. Whenever a challenge arose your response would always be the same “girl, God’s got this! We’ll pray and leave it in His hands.” More now than ever, those words resonate with us... God’s got this; we are confident you’re in His hands. We are eternally grateful for the sisterhood shared.

Loved you then, now, and forever.

Andrew & Desreen Marquis – Memories of Annie will never die Annie, you fell asleep without saying goodbye, but memories of you will never die Time may pass and fade away, but memories of you will always stay Recalling your spirited attitude and caring ways Are treasures that will keep us through difficult days Your bubbly laughter, quick jibes, never selfish, always loving and kind These are some of the memories Ann you have left behind Simple words but very true Annie, we’ll always remember you

Andrea Amherst – An angel amongst us Dearest Ann: From the day we met I knew we would be friends for life. I can recall long meaningful conversations about our purpose in life and the path that God has carved out for us.

You were always sure of what you were meant to do and never wavered from your calling. God trusted you to be one of his foot soldiers. You were most certainly a living angel amongst us.

Your most treasured gift was your beautiful and talented son Anthony. You invested everything a mother had to give and then some. In our last conversation you shared that you received a confirmation from God that Anthony would be ok and he is!! We will love, nurture, and care for him. In that department you left

us some big shoes to fill.

I will miss your hugs, laughter, and smile, but your spirit will live on.

Until we meet again…much love…

I have good friends can’t you tell Each one watered and kept well With love, kindness, sharing, and caring All these are important is what I am hearing So to those who occupy my garden…

You softened my heart when life tried to harden Precious memories to each other imparted Will comfort us when any is departed Excerpt from Friendship’s Garden

By Annette Taylor-Spence

Now wasn’t that walk through my garden refreshing…

Order of Service Praise & Worship Going Up Yonder – Instrumental

My Hope is built on Nothing Less

Opening Remarks

Pastor S. Robert Stewart

Congregational Song How Great Thou Art Prayer Pastor Keith Reynolds First Lesson

Psalm 46

Abraham D. Ferguson

Musical Tribute Jean Kelly Second Lesson

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11

Judy-Ann Sibbles Beckford

Tributes Pastor Barrington Goldson Pastor Andrew Urshan Pastor John-Mark Bartlett

Musical Tribute The Midnight Cry Gayan Ferguson Tributes Elizabeth Gannon Sharon Bell Pastor & Sis. David Drysdale Musical Selection

I Bowed on my Knees

Avril Richards

Remembering Annie Ann-Marie Clarke Song of Encouragement Tabernacle Choir He Welcomes Me Message Pastor Winston Stewart Prayer for the family Pastor Milton Kelly Recessional Hymn Just Over in the Glory Land

Songs of Praise & Comfort How Great Thou Art O Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made; I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed Chorus Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art, how great Thou art.

Then sings my soul, My Savior God, to Thee, How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When through the woods and forest glades I wander And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees, When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur, And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.

Chorus And when I think of God, His Son not sparing; Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in; That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing, He bled and died to take away my sin.

Chorus When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!

Then I shall bow in humble adoration, And there proclaim, “My God, how great Thou art!”

Chorus

Just Over In The Glory Land I’ve a home prepared where the saints abide, Just over in the glory land; And I long to be by my Savior’s side, Just over in the glory land.

Chorus: Just over in the glory land, I’ll join the happy angel band, Just over in the glory land; Just over in the glory land, There with the mighty host I’ll stand, Just over in the glory land.

I am on my way to those mansions fair, Just over in the glory land; There to sing God’s praise and His glory share, Just over in the glory land.

Chorus

What a joyful thought that my Lord I’ll see, Just over in the glory land; And with kindred saved, there forever be, Just over in the glory land.

Chorus With the blood-washed throng I will shout and sing, Just over in the glory land; Glad hosannas to Christ, the Lord and King, Just over in the glory land.

Chorus

Remembering Annie Precious Daughter It was a beautiful, balmy, tropical day on July 29, 1967, when Roderick Ferguson and Dorothy McKoy, pledged their love for each other at Pentecostal Tabernacle Wildman Street, Kingston, Jamaica. Their lives together flourished and four years after the birth of their son Andrew, on September 30, 1974 their joy further blossomed with the birth of their daughter Antoinette Patrice Ferguson.

From the day of her birth Antoinette, fondly called “Annie” brought much happiness, laughter, and fun to the Ferguson’s home. There was never a dull moment when Annie was around as her quest for knowledge and her inquisitive nature kept her parents on their toes. As a result, to this day her Mom Dorothy is constantly referring to the dictionary whenever she hears an unfamiliar word. Serving the Lord was always an integral part of the Ferguson’s home, so at the early age of nine Annie committed her life to God and was baptized in Jesus name and shortly after received the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Annie could not be kept home for long, so at a very young age her parents enrolled her in Mavisville Preparatory School in Kingston, Jamaica. She was always a dedicated student, which continued when she migrated to New York, USA in 1986. While living in New York, Annie attended Mosholu Parkway Elementary School, Harry S. Truman High School and pursued upper level studies at Queens College. Attaining a Bachelor’s degree was not enough for Annie so she went on to get a Master’s degree in secondary education. Annie became an outstanding English teacher and taught at various schools in the New York Public School System. Being the “apple of her Dad’s eyes”, Annie relocated to Florida in 2003 to join her parents who had made the move earlier. Florida’s gain was New York’s loss.

Dedicated Mother

Nurturing and loving children was a natural part of Annie’s life, so she was overjoyed when after getting married she was blessed with the “love of her life” Anthony William Gordon. The birth of Anthony on December 30, 2004, gave Annie the opportunity to demonstrate what a loving, caring, compassionate, and dedicated mother should be. Regardless of the challenges of raising her son, Annie jumped over every hurdle life presented to give Anthony everything he needed to be a wellrounded and exemplary son. It was never too much for her to take him to his music lessons, martial arts classes, painting classes, the golf course and even just hanging out at the beach.

In continuing the legacy handed down to her from her parents, Annie invested time by instilling Godly principles in Anthony. They attended church together at El Bethel Apostolic Church in Port Charlotte almost every time the church was opened. This became a way of life for them. Praying with her son, and reading the Bible, trips to Chick-fil-a to name a few, were activities that Annie enjoyed doing with her “little man” Anthony on a regular basis. Of course, being an educator, Anthony’s academic endeavors were of great importance. Annie invested a lot of her time making sure Anthony had all the tools and resources to succeed at school. As a Mom, Annie was second to none, as she certainly excelled in this role and was a great example to many younger mothers.

Teacher Extraordinaire Once Annie achieved the necessary qualifications to become a secondary school teacher, she wasted no time in becoming certified in New York State Department of Education. She proudly started her full time job as a High School English Teacher in April 2001 at August Martin High School in Jamaica, New York. She went on to other high schools in the New York School district until she relocated to Florida in June 2003.

On arriving in South Florida, she immediately got certified and went straight into the classroom the fall of 2003. Annie moved to Port Charlotte the spring of 2004, and shortly after secured employment at North Port High School where she taught for the remainder of her life. Annie was more than a teacher to her students. She became a mentor, a counselor, and a confidant to many of her students who will remember the good deeds she implanted in their lives. Not only was she a stellar teacher but she was a great co-worker and friend to her colleagues.

Outside of the classroom, Annie was a motivational speaker; a publicist; a chorister; a street evangelist; a Sunday School teacher; and an entrepreneur.

How did this petite lady do it all? Annie always maintained her beautiful smile, but was certainly not a “pushover” and lived a Godly life to its fullest.

The legacy of Antoinette Patrice Ferguson Gordon lives on through all the lives she has touched – her son Anthony William; her loving and proud parents Rod and Dor Ferguson; her beloved brother Andy and his family; a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends; church family; students and co-workers. See you later Annie!!!!!

NORTH PORT HIGH SCHOOL

Antoinette “Ann” Gordon was a beloved teacher who worked at North Port High School for the past 10 years. She was a mother figure to many students who were drawn to her infectious smile and warm personality.

“She was easy to talk to.”

“She pushed me to finish what I started.”

“She always said you can do better.”

“She never gave up on me.”

These are just a few of the things some of her students had to say about her. Her passion for teaching was evident. She was equally loved by her peers. She always had a smile and word of encouragement for everyone. She may be gone from our presence, but she will forever remain in our hearts.

When tempted to fight fire with fire, remember that the fire department generally uses water…

Author Unknown

God Sent me an Angel Holly Miller – North Port High School Port Charlotte, FL

A Magnificent Light!!!

You were once a grand symbol of hope for all that crossed your path. For you were the glimmering beacon whose magnificent light danced across the land. With every step you took, your booming heartbeat shook the earth to its core. With the slightest wave of your evergentle hand, you would calm the dastardly seas that threatened to drown us with our own malice.

Your magnificent light which shone brighter than a thousand suns could easily dispel the horrid darkness that began to blind us of the love you gave to us many times before.

Now, tragedy has befallen the kingdom you have created. Sorrowful cries of pain echo over the once golden hills you forged out of yellow light, created for us, your loving subjects. The storm clouds of despair are swarming overhead, attempting to engulf your kingdom forged of love. Your devoted subjects have nowhere to turn because their marvelous beacon of light has vanished without a trace.

Although times are dark, your subjects will not falter. You are the one who pulled us from darkness, you are the one who taught us to love, you are the one who led us to this marvelous kingdom of light and although you are gone, your lessons still remain. It is your lessons that will craft the blade we will use to cut through the darkness; it is you we fight for because you are the one who so willingly took us in and gave us a second chance at life.

Although we will miss looking towards our beacon of light we finally realize that we are not subjects, but students, and you are our teacher.

With Love Desiree I. Sterling North Port High School, Port Charlotte, FL

Family-United in Love, United in Grief Winston & Mavis Ferguson & Family Annie has lived a life that has impacted all who know her in one way or another. We watched her grow and develop into the woman she has become. The transformational influencer that she has become has impacted those she encountered and has left examples to emulate. We miss her, sometimes we say “Gone too soon’ and other times we say “she has completed the work that she came here to do and has been called home.” The circumstance of her death is painful, but so was the Crucifixion of Christ.

By faith we know that for the faithful child of God, death will be an absolutely thrilling experience! O grave where is thy victory? To her parents Roderick and Dorothy we say - take your time to process. Your child has done well and you did a good job. To her brother Andrew we also say take time to process, your sister adored you and we know the feeling is mutual. Look forward to seeing her again and to rest in the arms of Jesus.

GONE BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN – Rest in peace ANNIE.

Kathleen Miller McLaughlin Cousin Ann epitomized an unwavering commitment to providing inspiration to present and future generations to aspire to spiritual and educational development. As she hoped, she became the change she desired to see in the world. May her passion and compassion for children live on in our hearts.

Uncle George, Auntie Moni, Gary and Gavin Dearest Annie Some of our fondest memories of you, was watching you grow and blossom as you became one the world’s finest young ladies.

Your memory will always remain in our hearts.

Sadly missed

Family-United in Love, United in Grief Karen Drysdale The very first thing that I always see in my mind when I think of Annie is her broad smile. This smile was always accompanied by her frequent giggles and easy laughter. I always heard those happy sounds coming from the corners of the Barnett’s bakery in Albert Town, Trelawny, as she played among the sacks of flour and sugar as a little girl. I heard them as a teenager from the middle of the NY streets as we told each other jokes while walking to the corner store.

I heard them from the other end of the telephone as we traded stories about life as grown women with children. I know that I will never forget her intense dedication to the Lord, the doting and enthusiastic efforts she made to her son Anthony’s life, her fierce love and devotion to her brother Andrew, the zest that she gave to her calling as a school teacher, her loyalty to her circle of friends, nor her deep love for her parents and extended family. Most of all I will terribly miss her voice with those happy sounds.

Melissa (Lisa) Miller My Dear Cousin Annie, as hard as it is to say good-bye for now... I will never forget your smile and your determination to achieve great things. All that you accomplished and the lives that you touched is now a legacy that will live on. You made your mark while you were here and now the seeds that you planted will continue to grow. I will miss you! Until then‌

A death has occurred and everything is changed.

We are painfully aware that life can never be the same again, That yesterday is over, That relationships once rich have ended.

But there is another way to look upon this truth...

If life now went on the same, Without the presence of the one who had died, We could only conclude that the life we remember made no contribution, filled no space, meant nothing.

The fact that this person left behind a place that cannot be filled is a high tribute to this individual.

Life can be the same after a trinket has been lost, but never after the loss of a treasure.

By Paul Irion

Family-United in Love, United in Grief Florence Webb (Nanny) Annie, as you were affectionately called, you are an amazing person, one of a kind. It is sad to know that you are gone at such a young age. You’re my sunshine; a carrier of faith, hope, and wisdom. You’ve got personality, brains, and beauty and we celebrate the special person you were.

May you rest in peace; I know you have retired from this life for a while but we’ll meet on the other side. We’ll meet in our new bodies. Auntie Flo

Herbert & Josephine Ferguson We have lost a young Ferguson daughter that we have admired over the years. We thought she would be the one fixing to attend the funeral for one of us, but this is not the case. She visited us a few months ago and she was a breath of fresh air bubbling with youthfulness.

When we lived in New York she was almost our daughter, she never left us out but would visit us often. We are still in a daze as if she is not gone but just not around; it is hard to think that we will never see her again alive on this earth but we look forward to seeing her again in a greater life. She was a good person, who is gone too soon – but God knows best.

Cousin Dave Fenton There was never a dull moment when Annie was around; she did not have to utter a word as her radiance spoke for her. As the saying goes “memories don’t leave like people do they always stay with you.”

Annie is gone but her memory will live on.

May her soul rest in Peace.

Family-United in Love, United in Grief Cousin Robert, Trudy, DeAvionne & Danielle Ferguson Precious Annie - O how we miss you; we are so sad that you are gone from this earth but we wait to see you again in the arms of the Lord. You are not around but you will never be forgotten.

Neville ‘Doctor’ & Enid I am lost for words to express exactly how I feel about this senseless, sudden, and unexpected death. Often times we ask ourselves questions that cannot be answered and asking ‘why’ is one of those. One thing I know is that we have lost a wonderful niece; a niece that is loved by everyone in our family.

There was not a sad moment when she was around. She will be greatly missed by us all.

To have lost someone as precious as Annie is an attack on the family.

May her soul rest in Peace.

Awww! They love me...

Pall Bearers Church to Hearse Abraham Ferguson

Anthony Ferguson Richard Ferguson Neil Ferguson Victor (Hendy) Pyne Rudolph Pyne

Hearse to Cemetery Uncle Cousin Cousin Cousin Uncle Uncle

Andrew Ferguson Brother Dave Fenton Cousin Dwayne Stewart Friend Ricky Butler Friend Lloyd Duffus Friend Gary McKenzie Friend

“Daddy, if you see me going to fall into hell please lift me up.”

“They may put me down, but I’m going up.

My daddy lifted me. Alleluia!”

I’m Going up Yonder If you want to know Where I’m going?

Where I’m going, soon If anybody ask you Where I’m going Where I’m going soon I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder To be with my Lord I can take the pain The heartaches they bring The comfort in knowing I’ll soon be gone

As God gives me grace I’ll run this race Until I see my Savior Face to face I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder To be with my Lord I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder I’m goin’ up yonder To be with my Lord

Acknowledgments Thank you!

Wrapped up in those two small words is all the gratitude that is flowing from our hearts. Each of you has touched us in special ways that has helped us on this uncharted course. We have felt your love in tangible ways. You have been the hands of God in acts of kindness; the heart of God showing compassion; the feet of God in visitation; the love of God in your prayers and support.

We appreciate you for all that you have done to support our family in this difficult time. Please keep us in your prayers.

The Family

Professional Services

Royal Funeral Service Inc. 17475 NW 27th Avenue Miami Gardens, FL 33056 305-625-6818

Interment

Memorial Gardens North 3001 North 72nd Avenue Hollywood, FL 33081

Repast

Pentecostal Tabernacle Banquet Hall 18415 NW 7th Avenue Miami Gardens, FL 33169

Program Layout & Design

Shawn Ferguson GraciousGrafx.com | 954.515.9016

Printing

Pentecostal Tabernacle International, Inc. www.PenTab.org | (305) 651-9696

So Long Princess...

A princess reigned in our lives for 41 years Bringing us much laughter and also some tears Our parental role was filled with joy Precious children – a girl and a boy Mom knew she was daddy’s girl It was in his arms she would curl A lifetime of loving and caring In joy and in sorrow family always sharing One day the princess removed her crown Her earthly reign it was time to put down We were not prepared – we would have wanted her to stay But the voice of another King she was bound to obey

By Annette Taylor-Spence