James “Jay” Foster

In loving memory of James William Foster, a devoted father, son, brother, uncle, grandfather, great grandfather and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2024, at the age of 80.

Born on April 12, 1943, in Spartanburg, South Carolina, James was a hardworking man who dedicated his career to General Motors as a manufacturer for 30 years. His commitment and passion for his work were evident to all who knew him, and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and perseverance.

He was the baby of 8 children, and they loved to spoil him. He always knew he was loved and cherished. He grew up with many of his nieces and they had a bond like brothers and sisters. He loved his Cadillac and his road trips down to Spartanburg to spend time with his cousins, nephews and nieces. Family was everything to him.

People knew him as “Jay” and “Mook”, but he was always known for being the life of the party. He was the most fun to be around and kept everyone laughing. His passion was music. He was a talented musician. He played the drums and occasionally would drop a few lines in a song. He encouraged his grandchildren to adopt his love for music as he guided them to the beginnings of their musical careers.

James is survived by his loving sons, James (Cheri) Foster, Jonathan (Luisa) Lane, James (Paula) Pettigrew, Curtis (Verda) Ervin and dedicated daughters, Ruth Peaks, LaJuan (John) Whitt, Lorrie (David) Murray, Lisa (Anthony) Hendrix, Carla (Frank) Preston; 33 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by father, Alexander Foster; mother, Carrie Foster; sisters, Lula Gladney, Vadis (Cecil) Collins, Carrie Ballenger, Lois Johnson and his eldest sister; brothers, Samuel Foster and Colis Foster.

Services to honor and remember James will be held at the Marlan J. Gary Funeral Home, East Chapel of Peace- 5456 Livingston Avenue Columbus, OH 43232. A visitation will take place on March 21, 2024, at 11:00 am, followed by a Celebration of Life at 12:00 pm. He will be laid to rest at the Eastlawn Cemetery, 1340 Woodland Avenue Columbus, OH 43219.

During this time of mourning, the family kindly requests your thoughts and prayers. James will forever be remembered for his fun-loving spirit, kindness and unwavering love for his family. May he rest in eternal peace.

Visitation 11:00 AM and Funeral Service 12:00 PM Thursday, March 21, 2024 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd.).

Interment at Eastlawn Cemetery.