
HOMEGOING CELEBRATION FOR THE LIFE OF THE LATE

SUNRISE: APRIL 2ND 1963 • SUNSET: AUGUST 13TH, 2023 • AGE: 60
SERVICE HELD AT: THE CHURCH OF GOD OF PROPHECY EAST STREET TABERNACLE
East Street, Nassau, N.P. Bahamas.
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 2ND, 2023 AT 10AM
OFFICIATING:
PASTOR TIMOTHY F. JOHNSON
Lead Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy Baillou Hill Road
ASSISTED BY:
PASTOR RANDOLPH P. CURTIS
Associate Pastor, Church of God of Prophecy MINISTER DENVER DAMES OTHER MINISTERS
MUSICIANS:
DR. ANDRE HANNA • CHAZ THURSTON • EDISON ROLLE
INTERMENT:
LAKEVIEW MEMORIAL GARDENS
Gladstone Road, Nassau, Bahamas







THE JOURNEY OF A ROSE
A TIME TO BUD
The home of Bertram and Marie Ferguson was filled with jubilation at precisely 4am on April 2nd, 1963 when the happy couple welcomed their seventh child and fifth daughter into the world. To compliment her beautiful appearance, she was given the name “Ruthlyn Roselyn”. With such a strong name, it was evident that Ruth would make an imprint, not just on her home, but her community and all those fortunate enough to encounter her.


A TIME TO BLOSSOM
After receiving homeschooling, Ruth was enrolled at the tender age of five to attend the T. Gibson Primary School. She then progressed to the SC McPherson Jr. and R.M Baily Sr. High Schools in the years 1974 and 1977, respectively. It was during her time in SC McPherson that Ruthlyn first developed her love for teaching. She marveled at the eloquence portrayed by her English teacher, and it was then that her calling to be a teacher became clear. She was an astute student and excelled in her studies. Upon completion of high school in 1980, Ruth decided to pursue administrative studies, which resulted in her attending a local business school to obtain the necessary qualification to jumpstart her career. Upon completion, she was able to gain employment with Balfour Beaty/ Blount Cavalier Construction. At the time, the company had just won the bid to build the former Cable Beach Hotel and Casino. This was an exciting time for the country and Ruth got the opportunity to do her part


by working in their administrative office. She was seen as a diligent, respectful, and dedicated worker. Upon completion of the cable beach project, Ruth quickly transitioned, and found gainful employment as a Data Processor at British American Insurance in 1978. In 1989, after being relieved of her duties due to downsizing, Ruthlyn felt her calling to teach young minds return. This was not a surprise to those that knew her. Ruth was always there to support her siblings. This included being a surrogate parent when needed. For her it was a labor of love being an aunt. She could often be seen cheering during christenings, graduations, weddings, and church programs. She made it her mission to ensure they were involved in Vacation Bible School and any other church activity that assisted in their spiritual growth. Ruth understood that “it takes a village to raise a child”. With this understanding in mind, she applied and was accepted to attend the College of the Bahamas’ (now University of the Bahamas) Education Program to pursue an Associate Degree in early childhood education. Ruthlyn held onto God for wisdom, knowledge, and understanding as she navigated through her classes with grace. She found the studies to be exciting and she could not wait to enter the classroom where she would be able to engage her students. Ruthlyn graduated with Honors in 1992, receiving high commendations from her lecturers and Assessment Officials due to her perfectionist attitude and exemplary




teaching skills. These commendations proved beneficial as she entered her first classroom in Ridgeland Primary School with God’s favor on her. This grace shone through as she taught class after class, year after year, guiding her students through various curricula. However, Ruthlyn’s greatest accomplishment was her ability in leading all her students in learning Bible scriptures, gospel songs, and leading them all in accepting the Lord into their hearts through reciting the Sinner’s Prayer. Ruthie put her best foot forward in the administration of her duties, and graciously contributed to the Ministry of Education for 30 years (1992 – June 2023).
LIVING A GODLY LIFE/ MINISTERING THROUGH SONG
Every aspect of Ruth’s life was guided by God. This was evident when at the tender age of 9 years old Ruth accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and personal Savior and was called to ministry. Her talent for singing was quickly recognized and nurtured under the coaching of Dr. Beulah Farquharson. Ruth was encouraged to minister through song and embark in Christian ministry. Her first solo performance was during a District Convention when she sang so beautifully and most memorably, “I Come to the Garden Alone’. Her voice touched many and assisted with leading them to Christ. She was not one to take her Christian ministry lightly, as was evident during one of the church’s crusades when the Holy Spirit took control, and she began to speak in unknown tongues. She was truly chosen by God! Ruth was renowned as a songbird. Many may know of her singing with various choirs such as the Blue Bells, The Twilights, and the Tabernacle Concert Choir, as well as praise and worship teams in New Providence and Bimini. However, many may not know that she was also a song writer. Ruthlyn was not a passive Christian. Wherever her life’s journey took her, she made it a point to find a church home and immersed herself in the work of the Lord. She played key roles in various church ministries including but not limited to Asst. Youth Director, Radio Voice Choir long standing member, Director and Asst. Women Ministry Leader, Intercessors Ministry, Ushers Ministry and Evangelism Outreach Ministry. She wanted to be used by God in whatever capacity He felt her worthy. In addition, she encouraged all members of her family to do likewise, and this influence can still be seen even now in the lives of her husband, children, siblings, nieces, and nephews.
A TIME TO LOVE: “HE SENT ME YOU!”
During a night at BTI, Ruthlyn met a curly haired Long Island young man by the name of Bob Miller. God also ordained this meeting as many young men had tried and failed in wooing the young damsel. This became a known joke amongst the young people of her time, especially the young men who revealed that they were too afraid to speak to Ruthlyn out of fear of her laying hands on them and seeing them for who they were in the Spirit. This joke did not deter Bob; rather it propelled him to seek after her even more. This pursuit lasted for four (4) years, and on Saturday, April 29th, 1989, Bob and Ruthlyn became one in holy matrimony. Even in this beautiful moment, Ruthlyn’s songbird talent shone through, as she released a one-time single called “He Sent Me You”. This single proved Ruthlyn to be a trendsetter of her generation as many to this day still recall the song and the beauty in the lyrics. Ruthlyn penned and sang that song from her heart as a song of thanksgiving to the Lord for answering every aspect of her prayers for a God-fearing husband to come her way. God did not disappoint, as this union lasted for 34 wonderful years, along with the addition of two (2) beautiful daughters, Gabriel Marie, and Jasmine Richa’ Miller. Bob and Ruthlyn loved each other dearly, and made many beautiful memories together, such as fishing and crab catching excursions, simple jokes and conversations about their dreams and goals individually and as a couple with God as their guide leading through them all. They were never apart for long, and even served together in various ministries, their last assignment being Evangelism Ministry Co-Directors. The love they shared was evident and continued to the very end.
A TIME TO FADE
After spending quality time with her family and sending WhatsApp messages recapping jokes of the day to relatives and friends, Ruth was extended a special invitation that was reserved especially for her. She accepted the invitation with glee and journeyed ahead. She commenced her trip during the early hours of Sunday August 13, 2023, and is now united with her first love, her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We are heartbroken that she left, but we understand that some invitations can’t be declined.
SHE WAS PREDECEASED BY: Her Parents: Bertram S. & Marie C. Ferguson; and Sister: Idella Ferguson-Albries
Left with loving memories are:
HER DEVOTED HUSBAND of 34 years Bob Miller; HER TWO PRECIOUS JEWELS: Gabriel and Jasmine Miller; GRAND-DAUGHTER: Gionna Miller; SISTERS & SPOUSES: Zelma Moss, Orian (Phillip) Forbes, Joycelyn (Gregory) Musgrove; Brothers & Spouses: Harry (Joycelyn) Ferguson, Starrington (Claudette) Ferguson and Ted (Vernetta) Ferguson; MOTHER IN-LAW: Alice Miller; BROTHERS IN-LAW & SPOUSES: William (Elizabeth) Miller, Welford (Deborah) Miller, Stafford (Marguerette) Miller, Ralph Miller, Neil Miller; SISTER IN-LAW: Louise Miller; NIECES AND NEPHEWS: Keva, Perry, Barbara and Brenda Albries, Tesma (Selathiel) Lloyd, Craig Moss, Tanya (Jamaine) Thompson, Shelton (Joy), Javon (Khrystle), Taurian, Kyjia, & Kranz Ferguson, Clayton, W/Sgt. 3597 Desiree Ferguson, Monique Forbes, O’Cara (Daniel) Nixon, Olivia Forbes, Jason (Shamikka) Musgrove, Jermaine and Jewel Musgrove, Ted Jr. and Toinette Ferguson, Tenille Colebrooke, Sharlene Johnson, Courtney, Alexis and Welford Jr. (Daphne) Miller, Camera and Jezreel Outten, Carson Miller, Joshua Miller, Alicia and Nia Miller; NUMEROUS GRAND-NIECES AND NEPHEWS; AUNT: Eloise (Selathiel) Swain; COUSINS Verlene LaFleur & Family, Shane & Denise Sweeting, Wayde Sweeting & Family, Philip Sweeting & Family, and Terah Swain. NUMEROUS GODCHILDREN; NUMEROUS RELATIVES AND FRIENDS INCLUDING: Shane Miller, Doreen Campbell & Family, Henry Ferguson & Family, Nora McClain & Family, Delvin, Joseph, Elvis, Sam, The Family of the Late Allan Ferguson, The Family of the Late Lawson Ferguson; The Generation of Bishop Nathaniel and Victoria Beneby, The Generation of Henriette Hart, Descendants of Browns Crooked Island; Bishop Dr. Brice H. Thompson & Family, Bishop Dr. Elgarnet B. Rahming & Family, Bishop Dr. Franklyn M. Ferguson & Family, Bishop Hulan A. Hanna & COGOP East Street Family, Bishop Dr. Woodley C. Thompson & Family, Bishop Dr. Ghaly Swan & COGOP Englerston Family, Pastor Timothy and Deanne Johnson & COGOP Baillou Hill Road Family, Apostles Edward and Merilee Watson & Trinity City of Praise Family, Bishop Kendal Simmons & Family, Pastor Randolph and Laverne Curtis and Family, Raymond & Karen Pratt & Family, Felix Walkine, Alsworth Rahming & Family, Williamae Bridgewater, Harry & Louise Simmons, Lelah Cunningham and Family, Deshaun Roberts and Family, Michael and Joy Tucker and Family, Mrs. Yolanda Rolle and Family, Mrs. Patrice Bodie and Family, Mrs. Dian Hanna and Family, Mrs. Judy Clarke and Family, Ms. Gina McClain and Family, Elder Denver and Merlene Dames and Family, Bis. Edmond and Lineta Ellis, Pastors Adam and KathyAnn Levarity and Family, Ministers Garrett and Olive Johnson and Family, Ministers Kenneth and Maytha Eneas and Family, Pas. Teachlet Pierre and Family, United Church of God Family, The Church of God Bimini District Family, The Bimini All Age School Family, Bailey Town Primary Family, Director and staff of the Department of Immigration, Administrators and Staff of the Cleveland Eneas Primary School, especially the beloved Grade 3 Block, Management and Staff of Bahamas Power and Light, Management and Staff of the Central Bank of the Bahamas, Members of the Bahamas Union of Teachers, Staff of the Ministry of Education Head Office and SouthEastern District.
Special Thanks to: Dr. Eugene Gray, Pedro Ferguson and the staff of East Sunrise Mortuary, and staff of Lakeview Memorial Gardens and Mausoleums. Please accept our apologies if we omitted any names. Kindly note that it was unintentional, we appreciate and are grateful for all your support.



ORDER OF SERVICE
PASTOR RANDOLPH CURTIS SR.
MUSICAL PRELUDE .................................................... “Beulah Land” ................................... Baillou Hill Road Worship Ministry
ARRIVAL AND SEATING OF THE FAMILY
ACKNOWLEDGING THE ETERNAL GOD
WORSHIP PROCLAMATION & OPENING Moderator

SONG OF THE FAITH ............................................................................................................................................. “Master Speak”
PRAYER OF INVOCATION ........................................................................... Bishop Hulan Hanna (Sr. Pastor East Street COGOP)
OLD TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE READING Psalms 121
Mrs. O’Cara Nixon (Niece)
CONGREGATIONAL SONG "Glad I Counted The Cost”
When first I started to seek the Lord, I’m glad I counted the cost; I fully measured to Jesus’ Word; I’m glad I counted the cost.
I’ve paid the price and obtained the prize, He saved my soul that was lost; And now my treasures are in the skies, I’m glad I counted the cost.
I laid my sorrows at Jesus’ feet, I’m glad I counted the cost; And now I’ve pleasures so pure and sweet, I’m glad I counted the cost.
NEW TESTAMENT
MUSICAL TRIBUTE
RECANTING THE MEMORIES
I’ve bid farewell to this world of sin, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And now my Jesus abides within, I’m glad I counted the cost.
I cast on Jesus my every care, I’m glad I counted the cost; And all my burdens He helps to bear, I’m glad I counted the cost.
’Twill not be long till the Lord shall come, I’m glad I counted the cost;
And bear my soul to that heav’nly home, I’m glad I counted the cost.
1 Corinthians 15:50-58 Toinette Ferguson and Tangia Thompson (Nieces)
Mrs. Cheryl Moree (Co-Worker)
AS I KNEW HER ........................................................................................................................................
Mrs. Judy Clarke (Friend)
Min. Kaye Rolle (Close Friend)
Baillou Hill Road, COGOP
Former Principal (Cleveland Eneas Primary)
CONDOLENCES ...................................................................................
PRAISE & WORSHIP
Mrs. Belinda Wilson, President, Bahamas Union of Teachers
The Baillou Hill Road COGOP Levitical Worship Ministry


MINISTERIAL CONDOLENCES ......................................................... Apostle Edward Watson, Senior Pastor, Trinity City of Praise
Elder Denver Dames, Baillou Hill Road, COGOP
Bis. Woodley C. Thompson, Associate Pastor, East Street COGOP; District Overseer, Zone 1
Bis. Dr. Ghaly Swann, Senior Pastor, Englerston COGOP
MUSICAL SELECTION .................................................................................................................................... Bahama Brass Band
APOSTOLIC REMARKS ...................................................... Bishop Dr. Franklin M. Ferguson, National Bishop, COGOP Bahamas
OBITUARY Read Leisurely
PROCLAMATION OF THE WORD
WORSHIPING THE KING ................................................................................................................ The Tabernacle Concert Choir
EULOGY & WORDS OF COMFORT ................................................................................................... Minister Timothy Johnson
PRAYER FOR THE FAMILY Bishop Kendal Simmons, Senior Pastor, Seven Hills COGOP
EXPRESSIONS OF THANK
Ms. Jasmine Miller (Daughter)
RECESSIONAL SONG ...................................................................................................................................... Bahamas Brass Band
RECESSIONAL
Levites/The Ministry/Casket/The Family
GRAVESIDE SERVICE OF COMMITTAL
OPENING REMARKS Pastor Timothy Johnson
HYMN "Heaven’s Jubilee"
Some glad morning we shall see, Jesus in the air Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share What rejoicing there will be, when the saints shall rise Headed for that jubilee, yonder in the skies
Oh what singing, oh what shouting
On that happy morning when we all shall rise
Oh what glory, Hallelujah
When we meet our blessed Savior in the skies
Seems that now I almost see, all the sainted dead Rising for that jubilee, that is just ahead In the twinkling of an eye, changed with them to be All the living saints to fly, to that jubilee.
When with all that heavenly host, we begin to sing Singing in the Holy Ghost, how the heavens will ring Millions there will join the song, with them we shall be Praising Christ through ages long, heaven’s jubilee.
PRAYER Pastor Randolph Curtis Sr.
COMMITTAL Pastor Timothy Johnson



HYMNS
"It Is Well"
When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say It is well, it is well with my soul
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come Let this blest assurance control That Christ hath regarded my helpless estate And hath shed His own blood for my soul
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part but the whole Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more Praise the Lord, it is well with my soul
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll

The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend Even so, it is well with my soul
It is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
It is well, it is well with my soul
"WHEN WE ALL GET TO HEAVEN"
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Sing His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed He’ll prepare for us a place.
When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, We’ll sing and shout the victory!
While we walk the pilgrim pathway, Clouds will overspread the sky; But when trav’ling days are over, Not a shadow, not a sigh.
Let us then be true and faithful, Trusting, serving every day; Just one glimpse of Him in glory Will the toils of life repay.
Onward to the prize before us! Soon His beauty we’ll behold; Soon the pearly gates will open; We shall tread the streets of gold.


"MAY HIS PEACE BE WITH YOU TIL WE MEET AGAIN"
May His peace be with you till we meet again
May His peace be with you till we meet again
Till we reach that distant shore
And we'll shed a tear no more
May He give you strength to endure
Till we meet again
Till we meet again [x2]
May His peace be with you till we meet again
May His peace be with you till we meet again
When we reach that promised land
And we're walking hand in hand
May He give you strength to stand
Till we meet again, we meet again
May His love be with you till we meet again
May His love be with you till we meet again
Till we walk those streets of gold
Where we'll never never never never grow old I'll find rest for my soul
Till we meet again
Till we meet again
May His peace be with you till we meet again
May His peace be with you till we meet again
Till we reach that distant shore
And we'll shed a tear no more
May He give you strength to endure
May He give you strength to endure
May He give you strength to endure
Till we meet again
Till we meet again
Till we meet again
Till we meet again
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ............................................................................................................................ East Sunrise Mortuary
CLOSING PRAYER ..................................................................................................................................... Minister Anastacia Pratt
BENEDICTION Pastor Randolph Curtis Sr.




