Obituary of Thomas Elijah Foster

Thomas Elijah "Tom" Foster of Goode, passed away Sunday, December 22, 2024.  Tom was born on November 7. 1944 and spent most of his childhood in Rosedale, Mississippi. His family moved to New Jersey where he joined the U.S. Navy in 1962. Tom proudly served as a fireman on the ships USS Nicholas and USS Carpenter, being recognized for outstanding service in Vietnam before his honorable discharge in 1968.

Tom met the love of his life, Ellen, and married her in 1970. Together they formed a bond which would last for the rest of his life. They moved to Virginia in 1986, settled in Goode, and joined Bedford Presbyterian Church where Tom was ordained as an elder and became active in the life of the church. He worked for many years in sales and service of office equipment. Tom was a founding member of The Shepherd's Table, a local ministry which provides meals to those in need. He served as its president for many years. He also volunteered in New Jersey and Virginia with the planning commissions and economic development.

Tom is survived by his wife, Ellen Chandler Foster, siblings Howard Foster and Fannie Ficklen, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are his parents, Edgar Smith and Katie Mae Foster and 4 siblings Mary Cook, Martha Shanks, Simon Foster, and James Foster. 

The family requests that in lieu of flowers donations be made to The Shepherd's Table or Bedford Presbyterian Church.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Monday December 30, 2024 at Bedford Presbyterian Church with a reception following.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.