Harold Loyd Ferguson

(July 30, 1941 – September 26, 2026)

Harold Loyd Ferguson, lovingly known as “Papaw” to his family, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 26, 2026. He was born on July 30, 1941, in Lamesa, Texas, and lived a life marked by independence, determination, creativity, and a deep love for his family.

Harold graduated from Lamesa High School in 1959. In 1960, he and his friend Larry joined the United States Army through the Buddy System. Although Larry was unable to pass his physical, Harold did and proudly began his military service. He completed basic training at Fort Hood and armored training at Fort Knox before being stationed in Bad Hersfeld, Germany. Harold served with the 14th Armored Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Reconnaissance Squadron, K Troop, where he was a tank driver. He was honorably discharged from the Army in 1963.

After his military service, Harold began his career with Southwestern Bell as a lineman, where he climbed telephone poles and worked hard to provide for his family. He later became a tool and die maker at a machine shop, where his skill and craftsmanship earned him tremendous respect. Other machine shops frequently tried to recruit him because of his reputation as an exceptionally talented craftsman.

Harold was an avid outdoorsman and hunter. He attended a 40-year annual dove hunt in Paducah, Texas, a tradition that became an important part of his life and memories. He enjoyed hunting dove, quail, deer, and turkey.

Approximately 25 years ago, Harold became completely paralyzed and wheelchair-bound. However, his disability never defined him or slowed him down. True to his nature as an out-of-the-box thinker, Harold found ways to make life work on his own terms. He designed, built, and modified things to make his life easier and continued doing the things he loved.
Harold was a gifted craftsman who could build and create just about anything. He worked with fences, furniture, jewelry, guns, knives, and axes, and enjoyed engraving, welding, and woodworking. His hands and his mind were always busy creating something useful or unique.
Outside of his work and hobbies, Harold enjoyed playing cards and poker, watching Westerns, smoking cigars, and sharing a glass of his beloved Buffalo Trace bourbon. He especially cherished the companionship of his loyal dog, Carrin, who was a treasured part of his life.
Above all, Harold loved his family. He took great joy in spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his family will remember him for his independence, ingenuity, humor, determination, and the many stories and memories he gave them.

Harold was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ferguson; his twin brother, Carroll Boyd Ferguson; I.V. Ferguson; his sister, Pauline Crawford; his nephew, Cory; and his niece, Leslie.

He is survived by his sister Nelva Dunbar, his daughter, Lisa Musser; his son, Stacy Rasor and wife, Raquel; his loyal companion, Carrin; and his eight grandchildren: Josh Ward and wife, Jenifer; Ashleigh Cole and husband Tom; Brittany Rasor and husband, Justin; Heather Jones and husband, Darin; Cory Rasor; Taylor Rasor; Scott Rasor; and Krystal Russell and husband, Scott. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy and pride.

Harold leaves behind a legacy of strength, craftsmanship, independence, and love. He lived life on his own terms, never allowing circumstances to keep him from doing what he loved or being there for the people he loved. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family and all who knew him.

Celebration of Life Services, 3pm, Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Harvest Hills Funeral Home. Graveside services 11am Saturday October 3, 2026, at Hico Cemetery.