In loving Memory of Bernice Ferguson

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Bernice Ferguson, lovingly known as Niecy, who departed this life at the age of 89 on February 1, 2026.

Born on October 30, 1936, in Hollywood, Florida, to the late James Randolph Ferguson from Acklins Island, Bahamas, and Celeste Rolle Ferguson from Andros Island, Bahamas. As the seventh of eight children, she exemplified strength, intelligence, and an unwavering capacity for love throughout her life.
A proud graduate of Bridgeton High School, Bernice pursued her passion, completing the public health nursing program in New York City. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Tuskegee University and later earned her Master of Public Health from the University of Michigan. In 2001, after over 27 years of dedicated service with the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Bernice retired, having made significant contributions to the state's healthcare system.

As a Director, Bernice played a pivotal role in establishing specialized services for children in hospitals across New Jersey. Her dedication to children extended beyond her professional life; she co-owned and operated Ferguson Family Daycare, Inc., alongside her sister, Miriam Campbell (Mae), providing trusted daycare, aftercare, and a Pre-K program to families for over 20 years until its closing in 2014. Bernice's love for children, especially babies, was evident in every aspect of her work.

Bernice was a pillar of her community, respected by colleagues, trusted by families, known by many, including state and local government and other public servants. She fought for civil rights and marched alongside notable figures such as Rev. Jesse Jackson and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Always informed about current politics, she often discussed the impact of the political climate, specifically healthcare or socioeconomic policy, which anyone visiting knows she had either cable news or church programs that played on all the TVs in her house.

Her unwavering faith guided her throughout her life. She dedicated many years of service to Union Baptist Temple. With a natural talent for writing, particularly in grant work, Bernice viewed this skill as her ministry. Even in her later years, she quietly assisted others in writing successful grants, never seeking recognition for her work.
A passionate traveler, Bernice journeyed around the world professionally and personally, most notably with her beloved sister Ethel. Her deep love for family led her to frequently visit the Bahamas and other family islands, where she graciously included relatives in her adventures. She instilled in the family the importance of maintaining the proud Ferguson family legacy.

Very special to Bernice, affectionately known as Aunt Niecy, were her nieces and nephews (her children), who were touched by her, each in their own personal way, through her guidance, wisdom, and steady presence, often showing up as mentor, counselor, and teacher of life lessons and skills.

Bernice is survived by her sister Ethel Brown, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends who will miss her dearly. She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings: David, Clifton, Randolph, Miriam, Elsader, and Robert.

Bernice leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, excellence, service, resilience, grace, and unwavering devotion to her family and community that will be remembered forever. Her spirit touched the lives of many, and she will be dearly missed and continue to inspire those who knew her.