Ferris, Everett

Everett Ferris

Early Life

Everett Edgar Ferris was born on May 18, 1897, in Rye, New York, the son of John Hull Ferris and Bessie Maria Finney. He was raised in a large family on Milton Road, one of several children in a household that reflected the close-knit, working families of early twentieth-century Rye.

Growing up in a rapidly modernizing community, Ferris came of age during a period when electricity and industrial trades were transforming everyday life. By his late teens, he had begun developing skills in electrical work, positioning himself within a growing and increasingly essential field.

World War I Service

Ferris enlisted in the United States Navy on December 11, 1917, at the New York Recruiting Station, entering service during a period of rapid naval expansion following American entry into the war.

He trained at the Naval Training Station, Newport, Rhode Island, one of the Navy’s primary training facilities for enlisted personnel, where recruits were prepared for technical and shipboard duties.

Ferris advanced from Apprentice Seaman to Landsman for Electrician, reflecting increasing responsibility in electrical systems essential to naval operations. He subsequently served at the Receiving Ship in New York and at the Naval Training Station, Hampton Roads, Virginia, where sailors were processed, trained, and assigned to active duty.

While his service was stateside, it formed part of the broader naval effort supporting the American Expeditionary Forces, ensuring that ships, personnel, and communications systems were maintained for the transport of troops and supplies across the Atlantic.

His technical role as an electrician contributed directly to the operational readiness of naval infrastructure during the war. He served throughout the war period and was honorably discharged on July 8, 1919.

Life After Service

Following the war, Ferris returned to Rye and built a long career as an electrician, working for Seymour Electric for many years. His work placed him within a skilled trade that continued to expand as electrical systems became central to modern life.

He became deeply involved in civic service through the Rye Fire Department, serving with the Milton Point Engine and Hose Company and rising through its ranks. From 1948 to 1950, he served as Chief of the Rye Fire Department, reflecting both leadership and longstanding commitment to public safety.

Ferris was active in numerous organizations, including Christ’s Church in Rye, Local 501 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, and several regional fire service associations, maintaining strong ties to both his profession and his community.

Everett Edgar Ferris died on April 22, 1958, at United Hospital in Port Chester, New York, at the age of 60.

At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Mildred Brown Ferris; his sons, Millard and Everett Jr.; his daughter, Mrs. Betsy DeVeaux; his siblings; and several grandchildren.