Civil Rights Attorney James E. Ferguson II Passes Away

Asheville, North Carolina, July 24, 2025

News Summary

James E. Ferguson II, a prominent civil rights attorney from Asheville, North Carolina, has passed away at the age of 82. Known for his relentless advocacy against racial injustice, Ferguson played a key role in landmark cases that transformed civil rights in the region. His legal career included significant contributions to ending school segregation and defending wrongfully convicted individuals. He was honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for his impact on civil rights in North Carolina, leaving a legacy that inspires future generations.

Asheville, North Carolina – Civil Rights Attorney James E. “Fergie” Ferguson II Passes Away at 82

James E. “Fergie” Ferguson II, a distinguished civil rights attorney and activist from Asheville, North Carolina, passed away on July 21, 2025, at the age of 82. Known for his relentless fight against racial injustice, Ferguson dedicated his life to advocating for civil rights within North Carolina and beyond.

Ferguson began his journey in civil rights activism as a student in Asheville, where he played a crucial role in initiatives aimed at ending school segregation. His early efforts led to the establishment of the Asheville Student Committee on Racial Equality. After acquiring his law degree from Columbia University in the 1960s, he co-founded North Carolina’s first multiracial law firm, which is currently known as Ferguson Chambers & Sumter.

His work in civil rights was particularly highlighted by his involvement in the landmark Supreme Court case of Swann v. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education in 1971. This case mandated the use of busing as a means of desegregating schools in Charlotte and played a vital role in reshaping the educational landscape of North Carolina.

Ferguson’s dedication to justice extended to defending those wrongfully convicted. He represented the Wilmington Ten, a group of nine Black men and one Black woman who were mistakenly convicted of arson and conspiracy. In 2012, they received a pardon of innocence from former North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue. He also defended Darryl Hunt, who was wrongfully convicted in 1984 of a rape and murder case in Winston-Salem and stood by him until Hunt’s exoneration in 2004.

In 2017, Ferguson represented Johnnie Jermaine Rush, who was violently assaulted by a police officer in Asheville; the settlement reached was $650,000, highlighting Ferguson’s commitment to holding law enforcement accountable.

In recognition of his lifelong contributions, Ferguson was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by former Governor Josh Stein in January 2024, a distinction that honors his significant impact on the state of North Carolina and the nation.

Following his passing, many local figures, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Chair Stephanie Sneed and U.S. Representative Alma Adams, expressed their condolences and praised Ferguson for his courageous legal mind and profound impact on civil rights. Additionally, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and County Commissioner Arthur Griffin lauded his integrity and mentoring skills. District Attorney Spencer Merriweather III acknowledged Ferguson as a beacon of integrity in the legal community.

Jocelyn Nolley, chairperson of the Black Political Caucus of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, noted that Ferguson was an iconic figure in the ongoing fight for justice and equity in the region. His legacy as a mentor and community leader will undoubtedly influence future generations of attorneys and activists.

Former U.S. Senator and vice-presidential nominee John Edwards emphasized Ferguson’s significant courtroom influence and the importance of his legal guidance throughout his career. The impact of Ferguson’s life’s work resonates with many who continue to pursue justice, equity, and civil rights across North Carolina.

Legacy and Impact

Ferguson’s contributions to civil rights have established a lasting legacy in North Carolina, one that has paved the way for many aspiring legal professionals and activists. His work not only transformed policies but also instilled hope and resilience among marginalized communities. As the world reflects on Ferguson’s life, his accomplishments in the face of adversity stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice.

FAQ Section

Chart of Key Features of James E. “Fergie” Ferguson II’s Legacy

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• WLOS: Prominent North Carolina Civil Rights Attorney James Ferguson Dies at 82
• Charlotte Observer: Civil Rights Attorney James Ferguson Passes Away
• ABC11: North Carolina Civil Rights Lawyer James Ferguson II Dies at 82
• Charlotte Observer: Legacy of James Ferguson in Civil Rights
• Wikipedia: Civil Rights Movement in the United States

Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER

The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.