Raymond Francis Ferguson, a resident of Branford, entered into rest on Dec. 28, 2023. Mr. Ferguson was predeceased by his wife, Ellen McDonnell Ferguson, in 2003. He is survived by his devoted son, Niall Ferguson, and his wife, Elizabeth Ferguson of Branford. Also surviving him are three wonderful grandchildren, Charles McDonnell Ferguson, Henry Downes Ferguson, and Ellen Sheridan Ferguson. Mr. Ferguson was predeceased by a brother, William F. Ferguson of Orange, and a sister, Patricia Ferguson Brady, of Newport, New Hampshire.

Born on June 16, 1934, he was the son of William Oliver Ferguson and Agnes Whelan and was raised by the devoted and caring Mary “Goggy” McCarthy, who lived with the Ferguson family for 33 years.

He was a member of the Class of 1952 of Hillhouse High School and graduated from the University of Connecticut, where he was a member of Theta Chi fraternity.

Mr. Ferguson’s business career in advertising and marketing began in New York City in 1960, where he first worked at Benton & Bowles, and over a 13-year period, he also worked at the Gardiner Advertising Agency and Warwick & Legler, where he was a vice-president. After returning to New Haven, his advertising career continued, and he became the co-owner and president of Sterling Associates. Mr. Ferguson was a past president of the Advertising Club of New Haven County and a board member of WNHC-AM radio.

He made many civic contributions, which included serving as a past member of the board of directors of the New Haven Symphony, a past president of the Branford Green Committee, and most recently, as the president of the board of directors of the Branford Center Cemetery.

He was a past member of the New York Athletic Club and the Seventh Regiment Association of Manhattan. He was an active member of the Elm City Club, the Mory’s Association, and the Pine Orchard Yacht & Country Club.

Friends and relatives were invited to a graveside service on Jan. 3 at the Branford Center Cemetery. Arrangements are being handled by W.S. Clancy Funeral Home of Branford. In lieu of flowers, please make any memorial donations to the Ellen Ferguson Memorial Fund at the Community Foundation for Greater New Haven. Please see his online memorial@www.wsclancy.com.