In St. Joseph's Church, The Rock, Ballyshannon, one of the real characters of Ballyshanon life will be laid to rest. The very sudden death of P.J Ferguson while preparing to move into his new home robbed the town of one of its best known residents. The word 'character' is loosely used to describe many people, but it is the best description of P.J., who was known far and wide through his vocal (and sometimes critical) support of club and county. Raised with some of the cream of Donegal GAA talent and a cousin of the famous Brewster family of Fermanagh, it was no surprise that he was immersed almost completely in sport, playing with St.Joseph's, Aodh Ruadh and then managing the club at senior and U-21 level. He was also an accomplished hurler with the club. Affectionately known as 'Elvis' because of his love of music and dance, he was never afraid to give vocal support and his 'one liners' were famous from Malin Head to Bundoran. His 'advice' was willingly given to friend and foe alike. As well as his involvement with the local club, he also acted as umpire for intercounty referee, Mick McGrath, and was not adverse to giving advice to a goalkeeper where he might best direct his kick-out. Indeed in 1993 he officiated at Croke Park in a Vocational Schools All-Ireland and raised the green flag six times. Among his great heroes was George Best, whom he saw play for Manchester United in the European Cup final against Benfica in Wembley in 1966. Away from his sporting loves, which also included the odd flutter on the horses, PJ was known far and wide through his work with Union Foods in Sligo, covering much of the North West. He also spent some time working in England in the sixties. Throughout his life he was a great supporter of Donegal and in recent times was the 'taxi' man for a Ballyshannon-Bundoran combination which included Joe O'Neill,. Anthony O'Malley Daly and Jim 'Natch' Gallagher. A seat on that 'taxi' to games would hardly have been quiet affairs. No more Sundays in Fr. Tierney Park will the cry of 'block the ball' ring out. PJ's very sudden demise on Monday left the immediate area in total shock and the wake has seen a constant stream of mourners from far and wide. His funeral Mass took place in St. Joseph's, The Rock and he was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Ann; son, Gerard; daughters, Moya and Karla; brothers, sisters and a host of family and friends. Courtesy of the Donegal Democrat. November 22, 2007. Tweet

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