James Henry Ferguson III, passion for boating

James Henry Ferguson III of Rehoboth Beach, affectionately known as "Sonny," passed away unexpectedly Thursday, July 11, due to cardiac complications.

He was born June 3, 1953, at Sibley Memorial Hospital in Washington, D.C. Sonny graduated from Jeb Stuart High School in 1971 and maintained lifelong friendships with many classmates. His passion for boating began in childhood, spending summers sailing and fishing with his grandparents in Boothbay Harbor, Maine. In 2016, he proudly earned his sea captain license.

Sonny lived in Rehoboth Beach for 24 years, dividing his time between the beach and Northern Virginia. He thoroughly enjoyed his 36-year career in sales with Select Wines, forming strong bonds with his clients, who became some of his closest friends.

Sonny was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Scott Lewandowski; his mother, Darlene Watson; and his stepfather, John Watson. Sonny is survived by his brother, Phillip Lewandowski; his daughter, Rachel Flood; his aunts, Sandy Wood and Betty Wolfe; and numerous cousins and dear friends.

In tribute to Sonny’s love of the water, consider donating to Friends of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation in his name.