Walter Foster

Mr. Walter Alvin Foster, Sr., 96, answered the Lord’s call on Thursday, September 1, 2016. He was born on August 28, 1920 in Caldwell County to the late Mr. Walter Alvin Foster and Mrs. Edith Sophronia Powell Foster. In Addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his Beloved wife of 51 years- Mrs. Ruth Gertrude Ferguson Foster; sons- Mr. Walter A. Foster, II, and Mr. William L. Foster; siblings- Mrs. Agnes Lamaughn Horton, Mrs. Marion Inez Campbell, Mrs. Ellen Christine Horton, Mrs. Charlotte Cornelia Gaston, Mrs. Laura Mabel Vaught, and Mr. Lewis Tennyson Foster. Mr. Foster was a member of New Covenant United Methodist Church (formerly Smith Memorial United Methodist Church). He served in various capacities, including the Methodist Men. In March of 1973, under the leadership of Reverend Glen Lyles, a vision of a new sanctuary was approved. Mr. Foster served as chairman of the Building Fund Committee and a member of the Administrative Board. His business, Foster Concrete Construction Company, was responsible for the grading and pouring the church’s foundation, curbing and sidewalks. In June of 1977 he was blessed to witness the official opening of the new sanctuary and in April of 1993 the burning of the church mortgage, signifying the fulfillment of the vision. Mr. Foster joined the United States Army on July 3, 1943 and fought in World War II in New Guinea. On February 24, 1946 he was honorably discharged, earning the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Philippine Liberation Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. Mr. Foster was a successful businessman and the owner of Foster Concrete Construction Company. He was inspired to establish his own business while working with his father as a stonemason. His business gained notoriety and expanded throughout the City of Lenoir and surrounding regions in North Carolina. He continued with his business till his late 80’s. Mr. Foster’s hobbies included golfing and family outings. He was a big fan of wrestling, baseball and football. He loved the subject of politics. Mr. Walter Alvin Foster, Sr. leaves a legacy of success and achievements. His life exemplified hard work, determination, and success. He always said, “You can do whatever you set your mind to do.” Mr. Foster is survived by three sons, Preston L. Foster (wife-Tina) Greensboro, N.C., Joseph E. Foster, Beckley, W. Virginia (wife-Phyllis), and Fredrick A. Foster (wife- Elizabeth) Lenoir, five daughters- Min. Cheryl Burgess, Min. Yvette Smith ( husband- Rev. Larry ), Joan Wells (husband- Herbert), Ruth Ferguson ( husband- Larry ), Minnie Dula ( husband- Rickey ) all of Lenoir ; 20 grandchildren and 30 great grandchildren; three sisters- Mrs. Carolyn Crisp, Mrs. Betty Moore ( husband- Taft) of Morganton, Mrs. Virginia Ann Frazier, Florida; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. The Life Celebration Service for Walter Alvin Foster Sr. will be held on Friday, September 9, 2016, at 1:00PM at New Covenant United Methodist Church (formerly known as Smith Memorial United Methodist Church) 426 Woodsway Lane, Lenoir, N.C. 28645 with Rev. Charlie Rivens, Rev. Jimmie Norwood, Rev. Larry Smith and Rev. Dr. Byron Grayson officiating. Interment will immediately follow the service at Blue Ridge Memorial Park. The Family will receive friends from 12:00PM until 12:55PM . Evans Funeral Service & Crematory of Lenoir is serving the Foster Family.