Charles Donald Foster

Charles Donald “Don” Foster, 88, passed away peacefully at his home in Parksley, VA, on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, surrounded by family. Born June 5, 1936, in Farmville, VA, he was the son of the late Louie Mae Morris Foster and Charles Norton Foster.

Don graduated from Farmville High School and began his career at Newberry’s in Farmville. His journey with Newberry’s led him to Pocomoke City, MD in the spring of 1956, where he met and fell in love with Ida “Faye” Evans. After a short courtship, they knew they had found their forever and were married on August 12, 1956. Their 68-year love story began in Faye’s hometown, Saxis, VA, where they lived and raised their children for two decades.

A man of deep faith, Don was a devoted member of Saxis United Methodist Church, where he shared his passion for the Lord as a Sunday school teacher and youth leader. His dedication to mentoring youth extended beyond the church walls, accompanying them on many trips and instilling in them a love for adventure and faith.

Don’s professional career was marked by hard work and integrity. He joined Holly Farms and played a pivotal role in the opening of their plant, quickly rising to the position of plant manager. He continued in this position through the acquisition by Tyson Foods, Inc. His commitment to excellence and leadership earned him the respect of his colleagues and employees. Don retired in 1998 after several decades of service.

In 1976, Don and Faye settled in Parksley, VA, becoming active members of Grace United Methodist Church. Don served as a lay leader for over twenty years, sang joyfully in the choir, and volunteered for all events and committees…if there was a meeting, Don Foster was there. A man of his word, Don’s kindness extended to many throughout the community, and he always showed up.

Don and Faye shared a passion for travel, exploring 49 states in their camper, only missing Hawaii because they couldn’t drive there. On many occasions, they were joined by family and friends, with whom they shared countless memories throughout the years.

Don set the bar high in every aspect of his life simply because he cared. He led a life based on Christian values, unconditional love, and infinite patience and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Ida “Faye” Foster; children, Faith Sturgis and her husband, Sonny, of Hacksneck, VA; and Donald “Chuck” Foster, Jr. and his wife, Page, of Crisfield, MD; grandchildren, Whitney Elizabeth Phillips (Brooks), James “Weston” Foster (Marie), Tinsley Evans Foster, Michelle Sturgis Williams (Burley), Calvin “Lee” Sturgis III (Lori);  great-grandchildren, Talin and Lelia Phillips, Logan and Cooper Sturgis, and Ryan Williams; brother-in-law, Arnold Evans (Maria); nieces, Joy Bardinelli and Sandee Whyte; and many dear friends. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Patricia Woods.

A funeral service honoring Don’s life and legacy will be held at Grace United Methodist Church on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., with The Reverends Don Jamison and Bill McClung officiating. The family will gather privately for interment at the Parksley Cemetery.

Contributions in Don’s memory may be made to Grace UMC, P.O. Box 156, Parksley, VA 23421 or to the Foodbank of the Eastern Shore, P.O. Box 518, Tasley, VA 23441 (www.foodbankonline.org/give).

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams-Parksley Funeral Home.