Carol Lynn Cooper Ferguson was born in Billings on Valentine’s Day, 1940, to Constance Stevens Cooper and Lyle Cooper. She grew up in Bridger and Billings and graduated in 1958 from Billings Senior High School, where she was actively involved in student theater projects. She attended college at the University of Montana, where she was involved in several student organizations and chaired the Montana Forum (a student-faculty discussion group) as well as the Foreign Student Committee. In 1962, Carol was awarded a Fulbright scholarship to study history in Brussels, Belgium. She then earned a master’s degree in history from the University of Rochester. In 1966, she returned to Montana, where she raised four children while working for over 30 years for the state of Montana.
Carol had a brilliant mind and took a keen interest in politics, the law, and humanitarian affairs. She was an active member of Helena’s PEO chapter BK, the AAUW, Plymouth Congregational Church, and the Montana Democratic Party. In her later years, she enjoyed digging deep into family genealogy. More than anything, Carol enjoyed summertime at the family cabin in Silver Gate, where as a child she guided tourists on horseback and where she got to know two of her favorite equine friends, Sparkles and Fancy.
Carol was preceded in death by her parents and a son who died in infancy. She is survived by her beloved sister, Joanne Cooper Morrill of Seattle, and brother, David Cooper of Helena, and by her dear cousin and friend Wendy Keating of Billings, nephew Andrew Morrill and niece Jean Morrill, and her four children—David Ferguson, Sarah Ferguson-Mañon, Laura Ferguson Jetty, and Jennifer Ferguson—and two sons-in-law, Cipriano Mañon Muñoz and Mike Jetty, as well as seven grandchildren: Ameyalli, Rosamond, Nathaniel, Chanti, Emiliano, Hannah, and Sapphire.
Our Valentine will be greatly missed.
A family celebration of Carol’s life will take place at the family cabin next summer. In lieu of flowers, friends and family can make charitable donations in Carol’s name to the E. Lyle Cooper Endowed Scholarship at MSU-Billings or the Jules A. Karlin Scholarship Fund at the University of Montana-Missoula.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Marilyn says
I remember Mrs. Ferguson, Carol, she was one of the nicest moms in elementary school. I have very fond memories of being at her home, she was an amazing cook, I can still remember loving her breakfast! David, Sarah, Laura and Jenny, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember your mom having a huge heart and being a very warm, loving woman. My thoughts and love go out to you and your families.
Marilyn Buck says
Carol was always a good neighbor and friend to my parents. I enjoyed having conversations with her. Take care
Pat Scott says
So sorry to you all for your loss. Your Mom was a wonderful person who raised 4 wonderful individuals.
I have many happy memories of your Mom.
Peace❤️ Pat Scott
Wendy Keating says
To you, David Sarah, Laura. Jenny, Big David, and Joanne. Carol’s family was always her life and her light. She raised her children with a big heart and a soft voice and love that spilled out of her spirit. She was devoted to her grandchildren and treasured her sister and brother. I embrace beautiful memories over a lifetime of friendship. In our last conversation, she said if by some miracle she was in Silver Gate next summer, we would celebrate our years together, and if she wasn’t able to be there in person, she would be there in spirit. Her footprints are on each of us. Maybe we will see them next summer in the sands by the Soda Butte Creek.
Kathleen Broussard says
So very sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a sweet and kind person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kathleen Broussard
Beverly Gibson says
We will miss Carol. I particularly remember our visit to Kumamoto Japan where we caught up with her son for a visit to a Montana style night club. She was a significant contributor to the Wildlife Foundation board. A charming role model for all.
Len & Concetta Eckel says
Carol always had a smile when we’d meet on the road even up until a few weeks ago. She led a remarkable life and raised wonderful children! She even helped out from time to time with our girls particularly during Mount St. Helen’s volcano when we were on a business trip. Sending warm hugs to her family.