Carmen Ferguson
1946-2026
Carmen attended the University of Colorado Boulder, graduating with a degree in French and Fine Arts. She moved to Galena in 1982, working as an artist, astrologer, radio host, and trainer for John Deere. She met the love of her life, Lester Johnson, and they married on September 4, 1989, at Grace Episcopal Church. They shared a deep love of nature and gardening, growing popcorn, flowers, and vegetables, and developed a stunning terraced garden and ponds at their home. They were active in conservation efforts in Jo Daviess County and enjoyed relaxing by fishing on their pontoon boat. Though she had no children of her own, Carmen nurtured children of all ages, whether it was teaching art, digging in the garden, or cooking. Carmen was deeply involved in many aspects of her community, including the Galena Artists' Guild and Arts Festival, the community garden, the Grace Episcopal Church Choir, a weekly poetry group, and the Food Pantry. She was particularly proud of her research and performances as Adele Gratiot Washburne with The Women of Courage group. Visitors can view a selection of Carmen’s beautiful watercolors in the Artist’s Circle, where they hang as part of the Center’s permanent collection.
Carmen attended the University of Colorado Boulder, graduating with a degree in French and Fine Arts. She moved to Galena in 1982, working as an artist, astrologer, radio host, and trainer for John Deere. She met the love of her life, Lester Johnson, and they married on September 4, 1989, at Grace Episcopal Church. They shared a deep love of nature and gardening, growing popcorn, flowers, and vegetables, and developed a stunning terraced garden and ponds at their home. They were active in conservation efforts in Jo Daviess County and enjoyed relaxing by fishing on their pontoon boat. Though she had no children of her own, Carmen nurtured children of all ages, whether it was teaching art, digging in the garden, or cooking. Carmen was deeply involved in many aspects of her community, including the Galena Artists' Guild and Arts Festival, the community garden, the Grace Episcopal Church Choir, a weekly poetry group, and the Food Pantry. She was particularly proud of her research and performances as Adele Gratiot Washburne with The Women of Courage group. Visitors can view a selection of Carmen’s beautiful watercolors in the Artist’s Circle, where they hang as part of the Center’s permanent collection.
