Thelma Marie Ferguson, 87, passed on Thursday May 8, 2025 at Evercare of Jerseyville. Born September 12, 1937 in Alton, she was a daughter of Henry and Alma (Gueldener) Stanka. Throughout her youth, she worked for her parents at Stanka's Garage in North Alton. Sweeping the floors was the task she dreaded most and continued to mention it throughout her life. Thelma graduated from Alton Sr. High School in 1955. She was a member of the Alton Water Ski Club where she met her future husband. Thelma married Roy Dale Ferguson in Alton on June 7,1957. They had 2 children, Micheal and David. Thelma was known as a hard worker with many skills. There wasn't anything she couldn't do. To supplement Roy's income at Illinois Bell; Roy, Thelma, and the boys built a few houses and renovated others to provide niceties, like snow skiing in Colorado. The pinnacle of "clean-um up, fix-um up and paint-um up" was purchasing the Laura Building in the late 70's, stabilizing the building's internal structure and reconfiguring space for antique shops. Thelma was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey. Roy and Thelma also owned and operated Alton Fence and Door 25+ years until their retirement in 2007 where they had wonderful staff including the famed logo man "Mr. Alton" (Micheal). After retirement they enjoyed live-a-board boating on inland waterways and a coastal trip where they boated past the Statue of Liberty. Later years were spent with seasonal residence in Florida and cruise ship voyages where they met many new friends.
Husband Roy, son Micheal, and sister Dorthy Nelson have preceded Thelma in death. Surviving is son David of Bayfield, CO and three grandchildren: Michael & Dawn's son, Zachary and David & Lynn's sons, Jimmy and Jack. Graveside services will be at 10:00 am, Monday, July 14, 2025 at Valhalla Memorial Park, Godfrey, IL.
Thanks to all who supported the family along life's way. A Special Thank You to Mary Crowson for her friendship and loving care of Thelma over many years.
Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Gent Funeral Home in Alton oversees arrangements. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com