It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of James (Jim) Philip Christopher Ferguson of Shiretown Nursing Home, Pictou, formerly of Lourdes. Dad left us peacefully surrounded by his loved ones in the Aberdeen Hospital, New Glasgow on July 30, 2021, at the age of 74. Jim was born in Halifax on April 14, 1947, to Philip Henry Ferguson and Agnes Theresa “Terry” Leahy Ferguson. Jim grew up on the Westside of New Glasgow (Elm Street) and later moved to Lourdes when Terry and Philip purchased the convent/sanatorium from the Diocese of Antigonish. Jim was predeceased by his father (July 31, 1971), his mother (January 2, 2011), and several aunts and uncles. Surviving are his daughter, Sasha (George) Vlemma, New Glasgow; grandchildren Adara and Ava; Aunts, Patricia Stewart, Lanark; Bernadette Hardwick, Charlottetown; Margaret Leahy, Trenton; and Uncle, Paul Leahy, Edmonton, as well as several cousins across the globe. Jim was a proud Saint Francis Xavier University graduate and pursued a career in journalism working as the Director of Public Relations and Marketing for McCain Foods and Irving Oil. He later returned home to Nova Scotia and continued his passion as a journalist working for several companies including the Evening and Truro News until his health issues brought an early retirement. Jim was creative and articulate. At a very young age, his true love for putting words to print was shown when he wrote and delivered the “Elm Street Gazette”. He had a passion for creative writing, photography, and had a beautiful singing voice, but most would remember him for interesting conversations. Above all, he had a strong love for animals and had several pets during his lifetime. His years at High-Crest Home were particularly special because of his relationship with the staff and his incredible bond with a miniature doodle “Mona”. They spent countless days adventuring on the Samson trail, in Lourdes cemetery, and in the summer, exploring several beaches throughout the county. Even in his final months, his dedication and love for animals was to be admired. In particular, he was very devoted to the cat community of Pictou County and became a close ally with those at “Carma Cat Rescue”. Despite his illness, he would be seen downtown ensuring his fur babies had their dinner and a warm and dry place to sleep. A heart felt thank you to the staff of the Aberdeen Hospital (Rosemary Fitzgerald, 5 South and Palliative Care) as well as both High-Crest Home and Shiretown Nursing Home. Your kindness, care, and compassion will not be forgotten. He appreciated each and every one of you and spoke highly of you all. Cremation has taken place. Arrangements are under the direction of P&K MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow. A private family service will be held on Monday, August 2nd in Lourdes Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jim’s memory to Carma Cat Rescue (Pictou County Chapter), The Kidney Foundation of Canada, or Aberdeen Health Foundation Palliative Care Unit Endowment. (To donate online, please click on the underlined charities.) Lovingly submitted by his daughter, Sasha. To plant Memorial Trees in memory of James Philip Christopher Ferguson, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.