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Dear Friend,

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of Bill Ferguson's passing—a visionary farmer, cherished friend, and the first participant in Animal Outlook's Farm Transitions program ([link removed]) . At 72, Bill has left us, but his revolutionary legacy continues to transform American agriculture.

When Bill found us through a Google search after more than 20 years in chicken farming, he made the bold decision to convert his Tyson-contracted operation from producing 400,000 chickens annually into a thriving lettuce farm now providing 40,000 heads of lettuce weekly to local schools. This wasn't just a business move—it was an act of courage demonstrating that viable, compassionate alternatives exist beyond the debt-laden system of contract animal agriculture.

Left: Bill Ferguson with Animal Outlook's Director of Farm Transitions, Angela de Freitas
Right: Bill proudly holding a copy of the Dothan Eagle newspaper, featuring a story about his transition on the front page

Earlier this year, during his first-ever visit to the west coast, Bill captivated audiences at the Animal and Vegan Advocacy Summit in Los Angeles during his presentation. With his signature Stetson and unpretentious charm, his spirited karaoke rendition of "Sweet Home Alabama" revealed a man guided by faith and driven by an unwavering desire to create positive change.

Riley Creek Farms stands today as living proof that transformation is possible at any stage. Each lettuce head grown represents not just nutritious food, but a testament to possibility—inspiring other farmers to reach out to our Farm Transitions program seeking their own path toward sustainable, compassionate agriculture.

Left: Lettuce growing at Riley Creek Farms
Right: Bill with his beloved family and cherished Riley Creek team members

Honor Bill’s Legacy

We invite you to join us in celebrating Bill's extraordinary life by sharing your condolences on the Riley Creek Farms Facebook page ([link removed]) posts. Your words will comfort his family and honor the path he blazed.

Bill Ferguson changed what it means to be a farmer in America. While we mourn his loss deeply, we remain committed to expanding his legacy through our Farm Transitions program—helping more farmers find freedom from exploitative systems and transition toward sustainable, plant-based agriculture.

With gratitude and sorrow,
Ben Williamson
Executive Director

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