George “Poncho” Arthur Ferber

George “Poncho” Arthur Ferber, 87, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on January 11, 1938, in Jacksonville, FL, he was the son of the late George David Ferber and Eda Mae Ferber. Poncho lived a life brimming with love, laughter, and an unshakable commitment to those he cherished most.
Poncho grew up in Jacksonville where he met his beloved wife, JoAnn Bailey Ferber, at the YMCA Friday night teen dance. They married on September 23, 1955, and shared 69 years of cherished companionship and together they built a beautiful family and a legacy of devotion, kindness, and joy.
A devoted husband and father, Poncho is survived by his wife, JoAnn Ferber, and his two sons, George W. Ferber “Scooter” and Craig Ferber (Diane). He will be deeply missed by his sisters Lana Ferber Mason and Carol Ferber Brathune (Robert), nieces and nephews, as well as extended family members.
Poncho’s legacy will be deeply rooted in the countless friendships and fraternal organizations he nurtured throughout his life. He attended Bolles Boys Military School and graduated from Andrew Jackson High School at the age of 16. Poncho attended the University of Florida and Jacksonville University. He served in the Navy for two years (1956-1957), stationed at the Naval Academy in Annapolis and commissioned to the ship SS Cromwell on a Mediterranean cruise.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Poncho began working for Ferber Sheet Metal Works, Inc., at the tender age of 13. After marrying JoAnn, he worked at the Filling Station on weekends to supplement their income. Upon his father’s passing, Poncho continued to build Ferber Sheet Metal Works, Inc., into a thriving enterprise leaving an enduring mark in the community.
Poncho was an active member of many organizations. He was a 25-year member of the Arlington Rotary Club, a member of Riverview Masonic Lodge No. 306, the Jacksonville Scottish Rite, and a member of the DeMolay Legion of Honor. He was also a dedicated member of the Morocco Shrine of Jacksonville, a charter member of the Morocco Spitfires, and a past director of the Royal Order of Jesters Court 90. Poncho was initiated into the Shrine on May 21, 1961, and served as Potentate in 1992. He also served on the board for the Shriners Hospital for Children in Tampa, FL, for nine years before becoming an Emeritus Member on January 1, 2003.
Beyond his professional and fraternal involvements, Poncho was a passionate fan of the University of Florida Gators. He cherished attending games and celebrating their victories with fellow Gator Nation enthusiasts. Whether at games or gatherings with friends, he brought people together, creating memories filled with laughter and love. His Thursday morning breakfasts and high school buddy lunches were legendary for their joy and lively conversations.
The honorary pallbearers are Dick Burnett, Wilford C. Lyon, Jr., Cecil Kimberly, Bruce Oliver, Jerry Smith, Mark Fletcher and Raymond Lane. The pallbearers are Joseph Johnson, Real Bureau, Johnny Smith, Kyle Hersey, Jesse Green, and Adam Rouse.
In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial contributions be made to the Morocco Patient Transportation Fund, 560 Wells Road, Orange Park, FL 32073, in his memory.