La Grange-Tom Foster, 78, departed this earthly life on Sunday morning, November 27, 2022. Tom was born in Nottoway County, Virginia on April 20, 1944 to the late Charles Henry Foster, Sr. and Jennie Lee Foster (Herring). In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Sarah Waller, Minnie Heath, and Carl Foster.

An electrician by trade, Tom truly loved his work. Self-employed for over fifty years, every job was looked forward to with eager anticipation as an opportunity to spend the day doing what he loved. An excellent provider for his family, he helped to maintain a comfortable home and ensured the college education of both his wife and daughter.

Tom and his wife, Carolyn, were a match made in Heaven. Meeting for the first time at Hardee’s in Kinston in 1966, Carolyn was instantly hooked. It didn’t take long for Tom to feel the same way, and after a few years of dating, the two exchanged vows in 1971.

Raising their daughter, Tracie, was the highlight of life for Tom and Carolyn. Tracie was Tom’s greatest joy and he put much effort into making sure she was a daddy’s girl. He’d take her out of school every now and then for fishing trips or to attend the state fair. The time lost at school was minor compared to the relationship that blossomed out of precious time spent as daddy and daughter. Teaching her to ride a bike without ever using training wheels was one of many life lessons learned in their time together.

Tenderhearted and kindhearted, Tom was willing to help anyone. Regardless of their station in life, he gave to anyone in need and loved with all he had. His love and compassion spilled over to his pets as well, loving his dog and grand-dogs as a vital part of his family.

When Tom would step away from work, he enjoyed time in the salt air at Emerald Isle or in the majestic mountains near Blowing Rock. A flea market was right up his alley, and finding a great deal made the trip even better.

The family will receive friends for a time of visitation on Wednesday, November 30, 2022 from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Rouse Funeral Home.

Tom is survived by his wife of 51 years, Carolyn Foster; daughter, Tracie Chan and husband, Roland; his faithful canine companion, Lexi; special grand-dogs, Tilda Roux, Ruthie, and Charlie; siblings, Melanie Tripp and James Herring and wife, Deborah; mother-in-law, Mary Tripp; sisters-in-law, Susan Ellen and Martha Foster; brothers-in-law, David Chambers and Parrott Heath; along with many nieces and nephews.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com. Flowers are welcome, or memorials may be given to La Grange Christian Church, 202 W. Washington Street, La Grange, NC 28551, or to the Fidelis Xi Scholarship Fund, c/o Carolyn Melton, 2556 Pineridge Drive, Kinston, NC 28504. Arrangements are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange.