Mrs. Charlene Mavis Adams-Ferguson

Charlene Marvis Adams, affectionately known as 'Char,' was born September 28, 1952 in Evanston, Illinois, and departed this life on July 30, 2024 in her favorite destination, Montego Bay, Jamaica. Char was preceded in death by her parents Juanita (Jenkins) Adams and Samuel Adams, Sr.

Char was a lifelong member of Second Baptist Church, baptized as a child under Reverend C.N. Hawk Sr. Growing up in Evanston she served on the Junior Usher Board, local Brownie and Girl Scout troops, attended Dewey and Skiles Elementary Schools, and graduated from Evanston Township High School in 1971. A fond memory of Char's- Senior Year, she was a founding member of Wantu Wazuree ('Beautiful people' in Swahili), organizing bake sales and dances to raise funds for the senior class. After high school, Char attended undergrad at Lincoln University in 'Jeff' City, Missouri and graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. Char was a proud "Blue Tiger," and attended Homecoming frequently.

True to the Adams lineage, Char had a strong work ethic. After college she returned to the Chicagoland area, working two jobs- one as a department store clerk to support her love for fashion, and the other as a Substitute in Chicago Public Schools to support her love for teaching. During this time, Char met and married Terry Ferguson. From this union, two children were born, and a lifetime of memories were created. Char was a dynamic mother, ensuring that her children, and grandchildren were well educated, traveled, and loved.

Even with a family, Char worked two jobs. By day, she was a Chicago Public School teacher, by night, an after-school tutor and life skills coach. Seeking to grow as a Teacher, Char enrolled in evening courses to earn a Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education at National Louis University. She continued taking courses at Northeastern Illinois University in Early Childhood Special Education to support the growing numbers of Black students with IEPs. Char retired from CPS after 40+ years, but restless at home, she returned to teaching with Chicago Archdiocese Catholic schools, where she was employed at the time of her death.

Considered 'different' by her siblings, Char grew into a fiercely independent woman with a strong sense of self and perspectives of the rapidly changing world around her. A true free spirit (and Teacher), Char spent weekends and summers shopping and chasing experiences that brought her joy, waiting for the approval of no one. Char was a loyal friend, and a woman who truly enjoyed her own company. She often ventured to concerts, movies, dinners, and international excursions, solo. Leaving a lasting impression wherever she went with her dark humor and quick wit, Char never met a stranger. She stayed connected with everyone she crossed paths with, always just one call away to gossip over 'Hot Topics,' debate current events, and to celebrate life with friends and family.

Char will be remembered and missed forever by her two children Terrell Samuel and Amber Caroline Ferguson; three grandchildren Terrell Jr., Raelynn, and Messiah; her first best friends, her siblings Samuel (Priscilla) Adams and Francena Adams; and a host of nieces, cousins, and dear friends. Please keep the family in your prayers.

Arrangements entrusted to Thompson Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. Mr. Philip L. Gillette~ Funeral Director

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