John R Foster

John R. Foster was born December 14, 1946 in Birmingham, Alabama to the late Freddie and Marie Foster.

John accepted Christ at an early age and attended the historic Bethel Baptist Church where the late Rev. Fred L. Shuttlesworth was pastor.

John was educated in the Birmingham City School System and graduated from Carver High School.

Following graduation, John enlisted in the U.S. Army. While serving in the military, John continued his studies. John loved fashion and he loved to “dress to impress.” He had an affinity for designer loafers, suits, coats, hats, and leisure clothing. John also enjoyed soul food, family gatherings, music, movies, and traveling. John was a car enthusiast and enjoyed luxury vehicles.

John spent the majority of his career being his own boss. He embodied the entrepreneurial spirit. John was the owner and president of Foster Enterprises. Foster Enterprises also included a car dealership, car financing, car accessories, a gas station, U-Haul, and other automobile services. John operated “Carsmotology,” which was a popular car wash and detail shop in the Birmingham area for decades. John was the trusted “carsmotologist” for several celebrities, politicians, dignitaries and members of the community. They trusted John to maintain the integrity of their vehicles and to advise them on maintenance and recommended services.

John believed in empowerment and partnership. Over the years, he collaborated with other local business owners to create a network of services to serve his clients including car financing, towing, repair, car parts, and collision service. John created job opportunities and hired young people in the community as well as those seeking a second chance at life. John often hired young men from the local neighborhoods who wanted to start their careers and learn more about owning a business, cars, finance, and creating multiple streams of income.

John enjoyed watching college and professional sports. John’s favorite college football team was the University of Alabama (Roll Tide). John spent many Saturdays and Sundays during football season watching the game and analyzing the coaching strategy.

John loved talking about the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. He often spoke of his family, as well as their educational and professional accolades. He valued hard work, employment, self-determination, and independence. He took pride in seeing those qualities displayed in his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents: Freddie and Marie; Stepmothers: Eula Foster and Georgia Lacey Foster, Brothers: Jake Foster, George Lacey, Sylvester B. Lacey, Jimmy Lacey; Sisters: Jacqueline Foster Reynolds and Edmonia Lacey Hooks; son: Zachary Foster; and wife Linda Foster.

Left to mourn the passing of John is his wife, Sandra and stepsons: Marcus Hardy, Joseph Hardy, andMarlon Hardy; Children: John Jr., Tiffany, Chris, Karen, and Joseph; Siblings: Frances Foster White and Anthony Lacey.

John’s memory will be treasured by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and Godchildren in the Foster, Lacey, White, Hardy, Chairs, Brooks, and McKeithen families. John will also be missed by relatives, neighbors, business partners, and lifelong friends in Alabama, California, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and surrounding areas.