Julia Anne Ferguson
October 25, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, Julia Anne Ferguson, who passed at University Hospital on Friday, October 25th, 2024, at the age of 43. Cherished daughter of James and Norma Ferguson, siblings Sarah (Gordon) Grills and Malcolm, and nephew Thomas Grills.
Julia was a horse fanatic, and her favourite day of the week was Thursday, when she went to ride horses at SARI Therapeutic Riding Centre. Julia rode horses every Thursday at SARI for over 30 years.
Julia was an inspiration to all who knew her. Despite her significant visual impairment and neuromuscular disorder, she faced her challenges and was recognized for her accomplishments by being awarded the Young Woman of Excellence Award in May of 2005 by the London YMCA. Her accomplishments in swimming, public speaking and volunteerism are too numerous to mention. Julia enjoyed her time working at Goodwill Industries and most recently with children in the city’s Parks and Recreation programs.
Cremation has taken place. Visitation will take place at Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Tuesday, November 5, 2024 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Julia are asked to consider SARI Therapeutic Riding Centre or a charity of your choice.
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Jim, Norma and family. So sorry to hear about the passing of your daughter Julia. While I did not know her, she seemed like a wonderful person who has left fond memories behind. Susan
I worked with Julia back in 2005 when she co-facilitated a group at SARI. This was part of my MSW program. Julia was a mentor and friend to our group members, including my daughter. She approached her role with enthusiasm, commitment, creativity and compassion. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Julia and will remember all she taught me. I am so sorry for your loss.
Dear Norma, Jim and family, Please accept our sincere condolences for your loss of Julia, a truly amazing woman. She accomplished a great deal in her life. She had a wonderful sunny personality and determined spirit. She truly cared about others and many people cared about her too. David remembers her from the time they were at Saunders and how well liked she was and her involvement with many activities. May the love of your family and friends who surround you and happier times with Julia be with you at this difficult time. "The loss is immeasurable but so is the love left behind" Valerie, Grant and David Boland
My deepest condolences to Julia's family and friends. I worked alongside Julia at Goodwill for several years and remember her infectious sense of humour and her tireless determination. Julia was the United Way Champion for Goodwill and a champion she certainly was. I remember how excited she would get every year as the United Way campaign drew close. She did a great job and did it with pride. I also remember when Julia wrote and directed a play about Edgar J. Helms, the founder of Goodwill. Unsurprisingly, she sweet-talked me into recording an audible version of the script for her sight-impaired cast members :>) I think the play was one of her proudest moments and so well deserved too. Julia was quite simply an amazing human being. Always ready with a smile, no matter how she was feeling. She had incredible spirit and was a true example of dedication and resilience to those who were lucky enough to know her.
I was shocked and saddened to hear of Julia's passing. It had been many years since we'd seen each other or spoken, but I'll always fondly remember our childhood together. Julia had a great and creative imagination. We used to write stories and plays together, and often just had fun together being silly and coming up with all kinds of ideas. I also remember visiting the stables with Julia, so I've donated to SARI in her memory. May their future students be inspired by her ability to live her live fully, and overcome whatever she faced. My deepest sympathies to the whole family.
My deepest condolences to you all at this terribly difficult time.
Dear Norma, Jim, and family, I read with great sadness the notice of your daughter Julia Anne's death. How vividly I remember Julia and her older sister Sarah from the University Pre-School. My son Benjamin Holt and Sarah were classmates and later my son Daniel and Julia met up in the same classroom. (I have, somewhere in my files, a photo from Western News of Sarah and Benjamin working together on creating a gingerbread house). I never met your third child. My family news is no more cheerful than yours - 13 months ago Daniel died while he was traveling in Venezuela. I am still reeling from this tragedy. I hope to be able to come to the visitation on Wednesday - I have a Zoom meeting which should be finished in time. If it proves to be impossible to get to Westview I would like to arrange a visit at a time convenient for you. Please let me know your thoughts. All best wishes to you and your family. Renée
Julia travelled on our bus to Lake Joe. She was always so much fun to be around! We loved her and we are so sad to hear this news. Our deepest sympathy to her family.
I’m verry sorry for your loss.
Our condolences to Julia's family from Hutton House. Julia's independent spirit and can do attitude was an inspiration and support to many. She will be greatly missed throughout the London community as she touched so many of us with her warmth and thoughtfulness in everything she did.
Dear Jim, Norma, and family. We're so sorry to hear the sad news about Julia. We still remember her lovely smile, warm energy and her politeness when we often saw her at Masonville Public school, the Y and later on , occasionally at the north office as well as the YWCA. She will be missed by many! Julia's spirit will always remain with you. May her spirit forever soar in happiness and peace. We send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Sincerely Lauretta and Andy
I lost touch with Julia after we graduated from Masonville public school but she was just down the road, really. We were both Hillside girls along with Sandy and then Bill was down a little further. I’m happy to read that she lived a busy life enriching everyone around her. I always thought she was pretty funny and quick witted and much braver than myself, at times. Rest in peace, Julia. My heartfelt condolences to the Ferguson’s.
I had the privilege of working with Julia at Goodwill for several years, and it truly was a privilege. Julia had a tremendous heart and an amazing spirit - Simply a stellar human. Condolences to her parents, siblings, and nephew Thomas who she greatly adored. - Lisa S.
Julia was one of the most beautiful people I’ve ever met. The world has lost an incredible, fierce woman. Julia always took time to ask how a person was doing…And not to be polite but because she genuinely cared. I’ll never forget her warm spirit.
Dear Norma, Jim and family, I am so sorry to hear of Julia’s passing. My deepest condolences.
I met Julia through the theatre scene and she impressed me immediately! Our friendship developed through many projects that she always excelled at. She was funny, creative, determined and stubborn! She always had great problem solving and helped me deal with a lot of different issues. She was a good friend to me and I will miss her. I know how much she loved her family and can only imagine how difficult this is for you. My deepest condolences to all of the family and her other friends.
Norma , Jim & Family I am so very sorry to hear of the passing of your daughter. My heartfelt condolences to all.
Dear Norma, Jim, Malcolm and Sarah, Out deepest condolences on Julia's passing. I will always have wonderful memories of the kids playing together, Julia doing her summer saults in the yard - always with the biggest smile on her face. She certainly was a go-getter, and such a joy. My heart goes out to all of you.
Jim, Norma and family my thoughts are with you at this time. My deepest condolences on the loss of this amazing woman. Jackie Walker
Jim and Norma and family I am very sorry to hear this sad news . Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time . Most sincerely Mary E. and Robin
I’m sorry for your loss.
We are so sorry to hear of Julia's passing. We will miss her especially with the activities of the Independent Living Centre. She was a postive gal and willing to take chances. R.I.P.
Jim and family, so very sorry for the passing of your daughter. Thinking of you at this difficult time.
I’m very sorry for your loss. Julia was a sweet, caring and optimistic lady with a great sense of humour and a fun-loving spirit. She spoke of you with so much pride. My heart goes out to all of you.
Norma & Jim and family - I am so very sorry to hear the sad news of Julia's passing. She was always such a bright light, with her beautiful smile and amazing attitude. My heart breaks for all of you. May your treasured memories of your incredible Julia bring peace to your hurting hearts.
So sorry for your loss Jim and Norma. May Julia rest in peace, and those fond memories of her bring you comfort at this sad time.
My deepest codilences to you and your family at this very sad time. My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time
Our deepest condolences on your loss. We know that Julia was your pride and joy. May your memories bring you peace. Keep each other close at this sad time.
To Jim, Norma, and family, my thoughts are with you all during this incredibly difficult time. My sincerest condolences to you all. I remember Julia always bringing a smile and positive energy when she was in the office, and her love of horses was a shared connection between us. May she rest in the sweetest peace.
Dear Jim and Norma, Please accept my deepest condolences on the passing of Julia. I will always remember how strong of spirit she was. She had an amazing smile, a kind heart, and will always be an inspiration for her perseverance. Be kind to yourselves as you go through this time. She will always be remembered and in the hearts of those who knew her. Sincerely, Sarah
Services for Julia Anne Ferguson
Visitation will be held at:
Westview Funeral Chapel
709 Wonderland Road North,
London, Ontario
November 5, 2024 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Make a donation
If you wish to make a donation, please consider one of the charities listed below. You will be taken to the charity's website to process your payment.
my condolences to the family julia was very nice girl kind caring person i met julia in 2006 at hutton house rest in peace julia
~ Mike Hemphill