As a tribute to former Mayor ‘Bobby’ Ferguson, Maurice Today offers the following in remembrance.
Born: November 10, 1946
Deceased: July 23, 2024
Robert H. ‘Bobby’ Ferguson lived a life that reflected service, dedication, and leadership. His legacy is deeply rooted in Maurice, Louisiana’s history, and extends into the broader narrative of 20th and early 21st-century America.
Early Life and Family Background
Born to Edward and Jeanne Ferguson on November 10, 1946, in Maurice, Louisiana, Bobby Ferguson grew up in a family committed to public service. His maternal grandfather, Robert Dartez, served as the Chief of Police for Maurice from 1952 to 1962, placing the Dartez family at the heart of local governance during a significant period in American history.
Education and Military Service
Bobby Ferguson attended Maurice Elementary and Maurice High School before continuing his education at the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette) and Delgado Community College in New Orleans, earning a degree in Business Management. His studies were briefly interrupted by his service in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1967, a time marked by the Vietnam War and profound social changes in the United States. This period shaped Bobby’s understanding of leadership and responsibility, which he carried forward into his career and community service.
Personal Life
In 1966, Bobby married Wanda Lee Migues (1947-2008), and they had three children: Michael, Amy, and Edward. The passing of Wanda in 2008 was a significant moment in Bobby’s life, but he continued to honor her memory through his ongoing community service and dedication to his family.
Professional Career
Bobby Ferguson spent much of his professional life in the telecommunications industry, working for Bellsouth, AT&T, and Executone. His career spanned decades of monumental technological advancements, showcasing his adaptability in an ever-changing industry. These changes not only shaped his professional life but also highlighted his ability to navigate and embrace the shifts in communication technology that connected people globally.
Civic and Community Involvement
‘Bobby’ Ferguson was known for his generous spirit and deep commitment to public service. His most prominent role was as the Mayor of Maurice from 2007 to 2011. During his tenure, he also served as President of the Vermilion Parish Mayors Association. Bobby’s leadership extended to numerous civic and religious organizations, including:
- Vermilion Parish Library Board of Control
- President of the Maurice Fire Department
- Grand Knight, Maurice Knights of Columbus 3rd and 4th Degree
- Grand Knight, Immaculate Conception, Denham Springs
- Member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church
- Trustee at Church of the Immaculate Conception, Denham Springs
- State-Level Treasurer of Knights of Columbus
His involvement in these organizations exemplified his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of those around him, fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation in the community.
Historical Context
‘Bobby’ Ferguson lived through significant changes in American society. Born in the post-World War II era, he experienced the economic boom of the 1950s, the cultural shifts of the 1960s, and the rapid technological advancements of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His service in the Navy during the Vietnam War and his long career in telecommunications placed him at the center of major national developments, all while maintaining a deep connection to Maurice, Louisiana.
Legacy & Impact
‘Bobby’ Ferguson’s life serves as a testament to the lasting impact one individual can have on their community. His dedication to public service, his commitment to family, and his active involvement in civic and religious organizations illustrate a life of purpose and meaning. The legacy he leaves behind in Maurice, Louisiana, is one marked by leadership, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to making a positive difference. His contributions will be remembered for years to come, not only by those who directly benefited from his work but by the entire community whose lives were touched by his service.
