William James Ferebee

William James Ferebee, 87, passed away peacefully on June 20 at home in Pewee Valley, surrounded by his loving wife and adoring daughters. Born November 12, 1927, William was raised in and around Charlotte, TN, where his love of family, art, and nature blossomed. A Navy veteran, he attended the University of Tennessee and completed his education in 1953 at the Central Academy of Commercial Art. His first job brought him to Louisville where he spent most of his career at Zimmer McClaskey and Lewis advertising agency. He was often sought out for his exemplary skills in airbrush art and retouching. William loved to travel and accomplished his goal of visiting all 50 states, as well as several countries. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed organic gardening, camping, hiking wooded areas and shorelines in search of natural art, and taking long walks in his beloved small town. A long-time resident of Pewee Valley, KY, William was honored in 1989 for Outstanding Contributions in recognition of his numerous pen-and-ink drawings depicting the town. In 1991, Historic Pewee Valley, a booklet about the town's history, was dedicated to "William Ferebee, artist-in-residence."

William devoted countless hours of service to Crestwood United Methodist Church, where he was a faithful member for over 40 years. He was also a regular Red Cross blood and platelet donor for many years. William was a kind, gentle, good man who loved life and lived it well. He will be missed by many, family and friends alike. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rufus Bryant Ferebee and Nan Loggins Ferebee, and his sister Wilma Wilson.

William is survived by his devoted wife Diane Cornett Ferebee; daughters, Jennifer Klingeman (Jeff), Sara Ferebee, and Jane Ferebee-Grady (Jae); sisters, Frances Moran and Betty Capshaw; grandsons, Eric Klingeman, Adam Klingeman, and Arlo Rufus Grady; sister-in-law, Linda Cornett Winkler; brother-in-law, Charlie Wilson; numerous nieces and nephews, and countless friends.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m.-1:00 p.m. with service following at 1:00 p.m. at Crestwood United Methodist Church, 7214 Kavanaugh Road, Crestwood, KY 40014. Cremation has been chosen.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to Crestwood United Methodist Church or Hosparus.

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