William Sam Foster

November 22, 1923 - February 26, 2017

ALTON - William Sam Foster was born on November 22, 1923 in the Calvary Community of Halifax County, Virginia and chose that as his home for 93 years. As the eldest of six children born to Eunice Barker Foster and Will Jackson Foster he learned early on the importance of faith in God, devotion to family, and fellowship with friends and neighbors. During a life well lived he spent as much time as possible out of doors raising and curing tobacco crops, growing enough vegetables to share with others, and maintaining his extensive yard. Following three years of service in the European Theater during World War II, Sam returned home to begin a 67 year marriage to Phyllis Williams Foster. Together they cared for many generations of their families, including their son, William Joe Foster, his wife, Anne, and grandchildren Ellen Foster, Sarah and Timothy Robinson, Becca and Matt Miller and great grandson, Clayton Miller, all who survive him. He is also survived by his brother, Ray Foster. In addition to his wife and parents he was predeceased by his sisters, Dorothy Foster and Esther Harper and brothers, John Foster and Jay Foster. Thanks to the grace and skills of Chris Barley, Sam was able to remain at home for his lifetime and visit regularly with friends to exchange stories of farming, travel and family. Susie Powell and Betty Walker greatly assisted Chris and Sam in accomplishing these endeavors. A Memorial Service will be held at Calvary United Methodist Church on Wednesday, March 1 at 4:00 PM. The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 3:00 PM on Wednesday. In memory of Sam’s lifelong dedication to Calvary United Methodist Church, the family requests that those wishing to give memorials please consider the Calvary U.M.C. cemetery fund, 1133 Foster Road, Alton, Virginia 24520.