“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
James Allen Foster, a native of Mathews, transitioned from Earth to Glory on Monday, April 27, 2020, at the Riverside Convalescent Center in Mathews.
James was born on July 5, 1927 to the late Phillip Foster Sr. and Rosie W. Foster of Cardinal. At an early age, he accepted Christ and joined Zion Baptist Church in Cardinal. However, his greatest accomplishment was rededicating his life to Christ and serving his earthly assignment as part of the Deacon Ministry of Zion Baptist Church. His life’s focus was serving the Lord and being a role model for his children, family, and countless others. When speaking to you, he always reminded you that “you should not put anybody down unless you are willing to be there to pick them up!”
James, known affectionately as “Jim” or “Granddaddy Jim,” or “Pop-Pop,” was educated at Thomas Hunter School in Mathews before serving his country in the Philippines after World War II in 1945. After an honorable discharge, he returned home and pursued a brief career as a fisherman. In 1952, James began his career with the Naval Weapons Station in Yorktown and retired on Jan. 3, 1987. After retirement, he spent most of his time serving God’s people, maintaining his physical fitness, and enjoying family. Other interests included playing the guitar, building small projects, gardening, and riding motorcycles.
He was preceded in death by his siblings, Mary Ruff, Polly Torres, the Rev. Sarah McShaw, Robert Foster, Linda Mitchell and Sarah Lee; and a grandson, Steven Hobley.
Left to cherish his memory and legacy are his loving wife of 47 years, Clemmie B. Foster; children, Cynthia Hobley, Janice Burgess, James Foster, Sean Foster (Tracy), Alexis Foster (Onyette), and Shanell Wilkins; 12 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, Phillip Foster Jr., the Rev. John Foster (Pearl), William Foster (Monika), Frank Foster (Sonya); sisters, Anna Lee Monterio and Barbara Foster; devoted nephew, Roy Carey (Maria); adopted daughter, Prophetess Lolita Morgan (Roger); brother-in-law, Sterling Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
The family will receive friends during a viewing on Saturday, May 2, 2020, from 4-6 p.m. at the funeral home. A private graveside service will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2020, at 2 p.m., in Poplar Wood Cemetery.
Final arrangements have been entrusted to Forrest Brothers Funeral Home, Hudgins.