Maurice Edgar Ferree

Maurice Edgar Ferree, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and esteemed horticulturist, passed away peacefully at his home on December 15, 2025. Born on March 7, 1943, in Ft. Monmouth, New Jersey, Maurice lived a life rich in both personal and professional accomplishments.

He was a dedicated educator in the field of horticulture, earning a Bachelor of Science in Horticulture in 1965, a Master of Science in Horticulture in 1967, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Horticulture from Clemson University and Virginia Tech in 1970. Throughout his career, Maurice worked as an extension horticulturist at esteemed institutions such as Ohio State, Auburn University, and the University of Georgia until his retirement in 2000. Notably, he was named "Mr. Peach" by the Georgia Peach Council in 1987 and played a pivotal role in establishing the Master Gardener Program in the state of Georgia during the 1990s, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to horticultural education and community engagement.

In addition to his contributions to horticulture, Maurice served on the Clemson City Council from 2003 to 2006, further showcasing his dedication to public service and community development. His commitment to his community was paralleled by his honorable military service; he began his career in the Army and was stationed at Ft. Gordon in Augusta, Georgia, from 1970 to 1972, achieving the rank of Captain upon discharge.

Maurice’s interests extended beyond his professional life. He was passionate about war history and had a fondness for collecting peach labels, which reflected his love for nature. He enjoyed fishing with friends, collecting antiques, playing church league softball, and volunteering at Helping Hands Thrift Store, all of which enriched his life and those around him.

As a young child Maurice lived in Campobello, SC, before moving to Clemson, where he attended D. W. Daniel High School and graduated in 1961. he was on the first Daniel baseball team.

Maurice is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Joy Culver Ferree; his daughter, Gay Ferree Eitenmiller of Central, South Carolina; and his daughter, Cary Ferree Blackwell of Central, South Carolina. He is also cherished by his grandchildren: Erin Lindsey Eitenmiller, Thomas Allen Eitenmiller (Emma Kate), Mason Scott Eitenmiller (fiancée Grace Pottorff), and Lila Grace Blackwell.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roy James Ferree, and his mother, Edna Humphrey Ferree, who laid the foundation for his values of hard work and dedication.

Maurice will be deeply missed by all who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, knowledge, and love for both family and nature. His family takes comfort in the impact he made throughout his life and his lasting influence on the community and those he loved.

Memorial gifts can be made to the Dr. Maurice "Butch" Ferree Scholarship in Horticulture Fund at the University of Georgia (Payable to the UGA Foundation, designate for the Dr. Maurice E. "Butch" Ferree Scholarship in Horticulture Fund at https://gail.uga.edu/commit?des=75946003, and mail to UGA CAES Office of Development Relations, Four Towers, Athens, GA 30602

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