Janet Lee Ferguson Scarborough

In a world full of ordinary Janet Lee Ferguson Scarborough of Gulfport, MS , was an extraordinary beacon of light, affectionately known by Fergie, she stepped into the eternal light of peace on October 28, 2023, at the age of 69. Born in the spring mountains on April 23, 1954, in Oak Ridge, TN, Janet lived a life filled with love, adventure, and selfless devotion to all those she held dear. She was a vibrant soul who blazed a trail of love, courage, and kindness. Her journey came to a close in the countryside of Petal, MS, after courageously battling COPD for years and fearlessly facing complications of the liver.

A life made even more radiant by her remarkable spunk, determination and bravery. Janet was a straightforward honest woman who wore her heart on her sleeve. Her life revolved around family and friends, values instilled in her by her parents, Betty Lou and Jamie Durward Ferguson Sr., both deceased, along with her late brother Jamie Durward Ferguson Jr, . The worry she carried for her surviving brothers Brian Keith, Michael Patrick and James Robert Ferguson, and sister Taren Marie Carmack, was a testament to the love and unity that was the bedrock of her existence. Her soul sisters, Nancy Karen Dooley, Patricia Gail Harris and Cynthia Ann Doudna, were pillars of strength in her life, and she cherished her relationship with them deeply.

Janet's cape of love, wisdom and care were kindly extended to her sons Zachary Lee and Warren Kent Scarborough II, teaching them to be aware that life is about making choices, mistakes will be inevitable, forgiveness is important, and to always enjoy their life journey. Her profound love for them gave her life a true meaningful value. The love for her grandchildren Jarett Lee, Gracie Elizabeth and Kentlee Michelle Scarborough was a testament to deep affection. She enjoyed yards filled with cheerful laughter. Her children and grandchildren were her most treasured blessings in life.

As an adventurous soul, Janet's passion for life had no bounds. She enjoyed the simple things with a never-ending passion. She transformed mere yard work into a symphony of vibrant colors that attract butterflies and hummingbirds, much to her delight. Every moment was a teaching moment for Janet, bestowing precious life skills unto her family. The detailed complexity of driving passed down to granddaughter Gracie was one of her greatest accomplishments. The close bond she held with her daughter-in-law Anna Marie Scarborough-Goodman was everlasting from the advice given to the cooking lessons passionately handed down to daughter-in-law and caregiver Ashley Michelle Scarborough.

Janet wore many hats – a loving wife to her late husband, Warren Kent Scarborough, a devoted mother, an adoring grandmother, and a treasured friend. Each relationship was a testament to her spirit of selfless love and caring heart. Her aunts, Joyce Jean, Patsy Sue, and the departed Nancy Gail, Sheila Jan, and Ann Kay, her uncles Donald Mac, Ray Neil, and Roger Dale shared a bond with Janet, a testament to eternal relationships. To her nieces - Juliann Carmack, Brandy Ferguson, Jennifer Ferguson, Alicia Carmack, Carrie Ferguson, Betty Jean Ferguson and nephews - Christian Ferguson, James Carmack, William Ferguson, and Nathaniel Ferguson – Janet was a beacon of strength, love, and wisdom.

As we commemorate Janet’s extraordinary life, let us remember the courage, selflessness, and the spirit of adventure that was the hallmark of her existence. She had an infectious passion for life that is a resounding inspiration for all. Janet may have closed her earthly chapter due to COPD and complications of the liver, but her legacy of love and positivity lives on, gently cradled in the hearts of her family, friends, and a train of first cousins who hold a treasury of her love, laughter, and life lessons. Her story is one of unwavering courage and boundless adventure. Janet was loved by all who had the pleasure of crossing her path because of her truthfulness, reliability and warmth that immediately put people at ease. Her ability to find humor in every situation brightened many lives, making each day a bit more bearable and significantly more entertaining. Anyone who had the honor of knowing Janet would likely have a tale or two to tell about their shared laughs and adventures. This world was positively a more joyful place with her in it. Janet was a woman of strength, who took every challenge in stride. Her resilience was especially evident in her battle with COPD toward the end of her life. She faced this battle the way she did all things—with unwavering courage, a dash of humor, and a whole lot of heart. Even in the most challenging times, she found the strength and bravery to keep living her life to the fullest. She demonstrated her adventurous nature in countless ways, whether it was exploring local nature trails, or simply trying out new hobbies. People were drawn to her dynamic spirit and zest for life, creating an array of friends and companions. She built robust friendships and bonds that will stand as a testament to the
exceptional woman she was.

Janet, your life was a testament to the power of love and the magic of adventure. Your memory will forever guide us and keep inspiring us to seize life with courage and sincerity. Today, we celebrate you, an extraordinary soul who touched and transformed lives in more ways than one. May your story continue to illuminate our paths, today and always.As you’ve said so many times before “to the moon and back forever and always.”

In Janet's memory a memorial gathering will be held November 18,2023 for all those who would like to attend, the final arrangements will be posted to facebook once the details are complete.

Trinity Funeral Services is honored to serve the Scarborough family in their time of need and asks that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.