Ferrel was born on March 17, 1966, in Lafayette Parish, Lafayette, Louisiana. He is the oldest of four (4) siblings- two brothers and one sister. Then one day, due to better employment prospects, his parents relocated to Houston. He was raised in the inner city of Houston, where he learned early that the key to success was understanding hard work, being consistent, the importance of education—studying hard and never giving up. This belief has shaped everything he does.  He also believes that we have a moral obligation to assist those who cannot help themselves. Every person deserves dignity and respect.

Immediately after graduating from high school, he joined the military. While serving in the military, he faced challenges, including becoming a single parent with two kids and losing his sister to AIDS. Despite his fears, he had to become an example for both his children and his sister’s two children.

Also, while serving in the military, he diligently pursued and attained a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science earning a place on the Dean’s List. This achievement was accomplished through attending night school, weekend college, and engaging in self-study courses. During the  final years of military service, he commuted 70 miles each way while working towards a master’s degree. He successfully earned a Master’s Degree. He was the second member of his family to graduate from college, a generational milestone that fills him with pride.

He eventually retired from the United States Army after 20 years of honorable service. Because of his commitment to the community, after retirement he continued his community service in both Fort Bend and Harris Counties.

Throughout his life, he learned the value of leadership, trust, character, and common-sense solutions to everyday problems. Despite challenges, he promised to keep working hard, persevere, and stay strong!