Loreen Bessie Ferguson

Loreen B. "Bessie" Ferguson, 96, of rural Mound Valley, was called home on the morning of Friday, September 26, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Bessie was born on May 3, 1929, to Jacob and Anita (Lapham) Berndt in Coolidge, Kansas.  She grew up and attended school in Westcliffe and Salida, Colorado, until age 16, when she moved with her family to Independence, Kansas.

On December 14, 1947, Bessie and Freddy L. Ferguson were united in marriage.  She and her husband farmed south of Mound Valley for many years.  For over 24 years, Bessie drove a school bus for USD 506, lovingly getting many students to and from Mound Valley Grade School.

She was a longtime member of the Mound Valley Christian Church, where she taught Sunday School for several years.  She was also a 4-H leader for many years.

Collecting dolls and antiques and gardening were some of Bessie's favorite hobbies.  In earlier years, she enjoyed square dancing.  Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially taking her grandchildren on trips to Colorado.

Survivors include:

One son – Gerald Ferguson and his wife, Leslie, of Tulsa, Oklahoma

Five grandchildren

Two step-grandsons

13 great-grandchildren

Two great-great-grandchildren

Daughter-in-law – Darlene Ferguson of Mound Valley, Kansas

Son-in-law – Mike Burnett of Benton, Kansas

One sister – Lois McClure of Grand Junction, Colorado

She was preceded in death by her husband, Freddy L. Ferguson; son, Eugene Ferguson; daughter, Barbara Burnett; brother, Richard Berndt; and sisters, Doris Berndt and Bertha Brooks.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the Mound Valley Christian Church.  Burial will follow at Mound Valley Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday, at the church.

Memorials are suggested to the Mound Valley Christian Church.  These may be left at or mailed to Forbes-Hoffman Funeral Home, P.O. Box 374, Parsons, KS  67357.