Music director, Erslyn Ferguson Anders, dies at age 81
By Dedrick D. Henry, Sr.
Erslyn Ferguson Anders, a retired music coordinator for Miami Dade County Public Schools, died on Feb. 3 at the age of 81. Anders earned her bachelor’s in music at Talladega College and her master’s in education from the University of Miami. Anders’ career spanned across Broward and Dade Counties, having worked at J.R.E Lee Education Center, Frank C. Martin International K-8, Mary Bethune, Lorah Park, Sylvania Heights and Olinda Elementary Schools. Anders adored the assignment of providing support for schools in the North Central Region of Miami–Dade Public Schools. She was also the district wide music coordinator for over 20 years. Having a love for music since a child, Anders knew her calling and that her destiny would involve music being a part of her future and life. She composed her first musical arrangement in 1986, Oh, What a Beautiful City, which rapidly sold 1,000 copies for the price of 85 cents each. Anders is survived by her children: Walter Andrews and Nina Anders Fields; grandchildren: Aaron, Elliot, Wesley, and Christa; her sister Elaine Ferguson; brothers: William, Howard Daniel and James Ferguson ll. There will be a viewing at 6 p.m. Friday at The Church of the Open Door, 6001 N.W. Eighth Ave., Miami and a 10 a.m., Saturday service at the church.
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