Martha Rose Burgan

Martha Rose Burgan (Ferguson) passed into heaven on December 16, 2022, peacefully at home. The eldest of four children of William and Ona Ferguson, Martha met and married the love of her life, Jack Thomas Burgan on December 3 1943. After the marriage ceremony Martha accompanied Jack to New York as he was in the Navy, set to sail on a destroyer, the USS Doyle. While dad was deployed, mom worked as a secretary and saw many New York sights while waiting for his return. After World War II dad was honorably discharged and mom and dad moved back to California and settled in Walteria, a suburb of Torrance, California. Mom and dad adopted Joanna in 1954, followed by adopting John in 1959. We were blessed to be raised by Christian parents who loved God and loved their children. While dad worked for Shell Oil, mom took care of the house and us kids. She volunteered at Walteria Elementary School, probably to keep an eye on us. Mom was also involved in our church, Walteria Assembly of God, teaching Children’s Church to many children about Jesus and his love. The children she mentored have benefited from her love and compassion.

After dad passed in 2011, mom moved to Arizona with her twin grandchildren to live with Joanna. She enjoyed the nicer winter weather (not so much the hot summers), joining Crossroads Baptist Church where she was active in Sunday School and Worship services. Her Sunday School teacher told me he saw mom as an active listener who had great insight to the lessons. Mom was a prayer warrior for our church and family, always willing to support others in prayer. When her eyesight dimmed from macular degeneration it seemed her hearing increased dramatically. She could hear things no one else could, and she was usually right. Mom enjoyed talking on the phone, with many people saying she didn’t sound her age. During her last weeks with us she never lost her humor, making jokes with the Hospice nurses, enjoyed visits with friends and family, and encouraging us to be strong as she began to weaken.

Mom was very proud of her children. Joanna faithfully served her country in the US Air Force, then served the community as a paramedic and educator. Now retired, Mom was happy to see her serve at Crossroads Baptist church. John brought much happiness to mom as he was a successful mechanic and blessed with musical talent, writing and playing songs on the guitar. Her children are a reflection of her life and testimony as a child of God.

Mom was the true example of a Christian woman, wife, and mother. We could always come to her with any problem and after some wise advice, we would pray. I cherish the last 11 years I was able to spend precious time with her, watching TV, reading devotions, and praying together. Mom, we miss you, but we have the faith and confidence knowing you are in heaven with dad, your parents, your brothers, and other Christian friends who went before you.

Mom is survived by her daughter, Joanna, son John, grandchildren Corina, Elizabeth, and Jacqueline, her soon-to-be grandson-in-law James, her sister Billie Jean, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mom is missed, but never forgotten. She just got to heaven before us, and we will see her again.