Dorothy Rose Ferguson
October 7, 1928 - June 25, 2022

Dorothy Rose Fried Ferguson passed away on June 25, 2022, at the age of 93. Dorothy was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on October 7, 1928. While Dorothy lived in many areas of the country during her lifetime, she spent the majority of her later years in Scottsdale, Arizona, after relocating from Boulder, Colorado, in 2003.

Dorothy was the oldest of eleven children of George and Elizabeth Fried. She shared many stories of her childhood and time spent with her siblings, her parents, and her grandparents, Charles and Veronica Braun. Dorothy's grandparents, aunts and uncles were instrumental in her life as they supported her and her family during the challenging times of the Great Depression. She spent her childhood in Oklahoma City, attending Saint Joseph's Old Cathedral, Elementary and High School, and then went on to earn a Degree in Business from the University of Oklahoma. Dorothy was independent and studious, but she also enjoyed her post-college years with trips and adventures with friends. She also had a passion for beautiful and fashionable clothing.

Dorothy met the love of her life and married Ellis Raymond Ferguson in Oklahoma City in 1958. The ceremony was held in the church where she spent so much of her childhood, Saint Joseph's Old Cathedral. Their journey took them to Colorado and then to Nevada where they spent the majority of their lives together in the Reno-Tahoe area. Together they raised four children, Julie, Janet, Ellis and Jennifer.

Dorothy lost her husband, Ellis, in 1984 becoming the cornerstone and sole provider. She took on all the responsibilities and the care of her four children ensuring that they were loved, supported and always provided for.

Dorothy was blessed with strength, courage, confidence, peace, and healing. Her maiden name, 'Fried', is the German word for 'Peace'. She brought peace and love to all that knew her.

In addition to being a dedicated mother of four, Dorothy was successful in her career endeavors. After graduating college, she worked for Standard Oil as an Executive Secretary. She later worked in an executive and management role with the Department of Soil Conservation, while working alongside her husband to establish and grow his law practice. During her working years Dorothy gained confidence, experience, and expertise in real estate and investing, becoming a self-sufficient business woman.

Throughout her life, Dorothy thoroughly enjoyed entertaining, sharing stories, reunions, time with family and friends, and celebrations. She hosted many memorable family reunions and gatherings which will remain in the memories of all who attended as the events brought happiness and joy to all.

Dorothy was always the lady that was admired and loved by all who knew her. She made people feel better about themselves, through her polite and comforting nature, steady confidence, encouraging words, and wisdom.

Dorothy will be remembered for her kindness, her soft loving nature, and her love of family. She enjoyed the peace and serenity that come from the simple things in life, such as a love of art, flower gardens and the outdoors. A few of her favorite activities included watercolor painting, quality time with family and making her famous potato salad and zucchini bread. Dorothy was steadfast in her faith and was happiest when surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Dorothy is survived by her four children: Julie Griffith, Janet Shaw, Ellis Ferguson, Jennifer Bartlett, and her grandchildren: Kathleen, Chloe, Ian, Jack, Emily, Josh and her siblings Virginia Loeffelholz, Sharon Fujier, Terri Nichols, and David Fried. She is also survived by many extended family members who all loved her very much. Dorothy's family members who predeceased her are: George and Elizabeth Fried, Larry Fried, Leonard Fried, Rosemary Bitsche, George Fried, John Fried, and Donnie Fried.

A Celebration of Life Ceremony will be held at Rose Hill Burial Park, Woodbrooke Garden, at 3pm. Rose Hill Burial Park is located at 6001 NW Grand Boulevard, Oklahoma City, 73118, 405-843-5771.

In lieu of flowers, we respectfully request donations be made to Saint Joseph's Old Cathedral in Oklahoma City, or Hospice of the Valley in Phoenix, Arizona

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