Russell Arthur Ferguson

Russell Arthur Ferguson, age 72, of Marietta, Georgia passed away surrounded in love by his family on May 24, 2026 after a hard-fought battle with cancer. Born October 29,1953 in Erie, Pennsylvania, Russ went on to graduate high school from Woodridge High School in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio in 1971. He completed his studies at The Culinary Institute of America and worked in culinary arts and associated industries for the remainder of his career. He also made sure, along with his daughter turned sous-chef Kate, that his family was well fed and that they received the benefits of his gourmet skills throughout his life. He instilled an appreciation for good food and drink (both in presentation and taste) within his beloved wife and children which we will carry forward in his memory as we try to mimic his intricately chopped veggies and always wait for the oven to fully preheat!

Russ married the love of his life, Dorothy Jane (Zimmerman) Ferguson in April 1977, after having persistently sought her attention since they were teenagers. The two were blessed to raise 8 children who brought much joy to his life. He treasured times spent with his family, oftentimes at his work for concerts, rib-fests and professional sporting events. He completed more than his fair share of home projects with and for his children, as he was a master tiler, paver stone cutter, drywall hanger, kitchen remodeler and so much more. He was so thankful to have been able to travel to spend time with his family even after his diagnosis; spending time at the beach, visiting his kids who lived out of state, traveling to Hawaii, and enjoying a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to Greece and Turkey. He amazed us all with his strength and fortitude especially as he made his way down the 588-plus steps from Santorini back to the cruise ship. He and his friend/son-in-law, Tom, spent memorable time reflecting on life while sitting on the cruise ship balcony each night, sipping bourbon and cherishing the moments.

Russ was known to be able to talk to almost anyone. It would not be unusual for him to make friends quickly with work colleagues, neighbors, fellow diners at restaurants or just while out running errands. Over the years, he was an avid runner, enjoyed fishing, playing cards, traveling (he was a Delta Diamond Medallion and million-miler!), and spending time with his family. He was a big fan of baseball, both in watching as all of his sons played the game and later in cheering on the Atlanta Braves. Baseball was a big love for Russ, but he would also cheer his kids and grandkids on in their various life activities, from lacrosse, softball, basketball, dance, gymnastics and soccer to their many work accomplishments. He was nothing short of proud of his children. Russ was a classy guy—always erring on the side of being overdressed than underdressed for any occasion (he was not a sweatpants kind of guy!). He was well respected throughout his career for his knowledge, skill, work ethic and his demand for high quality. He showcased these qualities outside of work as well in his well-manicured lawns, which included an impressive koi pond he looked after with pride and joy. He and Dotty made for the best team throughout their many projects. Dorothy would head out as Project Manager to get things started with Russ coming behind her as the handy craftsman. They made a great team whether they were renovating houses, gardening, hosting holiday dinners, or running Sno-ball stands at Six Flags, although their most important project was always the love and support they instilled in the raising of their family.

Home Depot will certainly miss one of their most frequent patrons, as his many trips (at times multiple per day!) may have single-handedly kept his local store in business. When he was not working on projects, he relaxed in hanging out with his well-cared for cats who undoubtedly reveled in his attention.

There was not a curse word that Russ did not fully embrace and his family carries this linguistic enthusiasm forward in his memory. Specifically, “fuck cancer!”

Russ is survived by his wife, Dorothy, of 49 years, his children: James (Kate) Ferguson of Las Vegas, NV; Tara (Tom) Lopez of Lakeville, MN; Kate (Stacey) Collins of Marietta, GA; Amanda (Jason) Highers of Enterprise, AL; Russell (Amanda) Ferguson, Jr. of Marietta, GA; Christopher (Michelle) Ferguson of Marietta, GA; Caden Ferguson of Marietta, GA; and Kylar Ferguson of Marietta, GA; his grandchildren: Devan G, Tristan, Kaille and Lani Ferguson; Quinne, Avery and Ainsley Lopez; Alloe Collins; Jaide (Logan) Stanley; Mason, Maddox, Brady, Dash, Cannon, and Bella Highers; Daelyn, Iyla, Sawyer and Finn Ferguson; Hank and Beau Ferguson and great-grandchildren Grant and Stella Stanley; extended family and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Russell C. and Elizabeth M. Ferguson, his sister Deborah Ferguson, his in-laws Cyreal and Catherine Zimmerman, and his grandson Remy, who, we are sure, all welcomed him with open arms into heaven.

Russ is loved and missed so much already but we are thankful to have made him feel “safe and secure” during his final days and weeks. We extend thanks to Trinity Hospice who helped provide guidance as we navigated providing him the best comfort and care we could for him.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.