Carmen Joy Ferguson, 79 of Galena, IL, passed away Sunday, February 8, 2026, at St. Dominic Villa, Hazel Green, WI. Services will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026, beginning with a natural burial at Casper Creek Natural Cemetery, 870 S. Pilot Knob Rd. Galena, at 10 AM, followed by a funeral service and celebration of life at Grace Episcopal Church, 107 South Prospect, Galena, at 11:30 AM, luncheon to follow in the Parish Hall. The Furlong Funeral Chapel in Galena is assisting the family.

She was the daughter of Mabel Ward and James Ferguson, born on October 7, 1946, in Vancouver, British Columbia. After becoming a naturalized citizen, she attended Cleveland High School in Seattle, WA, where she graduated in 1964. Carmen was very active on the cheerleading squad and maintained friendships with her teammates throughout her life. Carmen attended the University of Colorado Boulder, graduating with a degree in French and Fine Arts.

She moved to Galena in 1982, working as an artist, astrologer, radio host, and trainer for John Deere. She met the love of her life, Lester Johnson, and they married on September 4, 1989, at Grace Episcopal Church. They shared a deep love of nature and gardening, growing popcorn, flowers, and vegetables, and developed a stunning terraced garden and ponds at their home. They were active in conservation efforts in Jo Daviess County and enjoyed relaxing by fishing on their pontoon boat.

Though she had no children of her own, Carmen nurtured children of all ages, whether it was teaching art, digging in the garden, or cooking. Carmen was deeply involved in many aspects of her community, including the Galena Artists’ Guild and Arts Festival, the community garden, the Grace Episcopal Church Choir, a weekly poetry group, and the Food Pantry.

She was particularly proud of her research and performances as Adele Gratiot Washburne with The Women of Courage group. Carmen grew up with seven siblings.

She is survived by her brothers, Robert, Wayne, and Dallas, and her sisters, Bonita “Bonnie” and Colleen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Ferguson and Mabel Ware; her brothers, Marty and Dean; and her beloved husband, Lester Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace Episcopal Church or the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation in memory of Carmen. For those unable to attend, service will be streamed on the Grace Church YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@gracechurchgalena9676

Online condolences may be left for the family at  www.furlongfuneralchapel.com