Noel Clyde Foster

“His Lord said unto him, well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” –Matthew 25:21


On May 8, 2011, the Lord called Noel Clyde Foster home after 98 years of faithful service. He was born June 26, 1912 to the late A.L. and Essie Altice Foster. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Harry and Samuel Foster; sisters, Mary Turner and Helen Hunt. Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Sarah Bethel Guilliams Foster, the love of his life for 75 years; his son, Marvin L. and wife Janice Foster; his daughter, Betty F. and husband Jimmie Cooper; three grandchildren, Steven Foster (Kerri), Susan Lane (Eric), Sarah Pennino (Ray); six great-grandchildren, Ally Berlin, Paige Jordan, and Drew Levi Foster, Parker Wyatt Lane, Rachael Elizabeth and Mary Catherine Pennino. Also surviving are his youngest brother, Benjamin Foster; one sister-in-law, Mildred Guilliams; numerous nieces, nephews and family friends. He retired from MW Manufacturers after 38 years of service. After retirement his time was spent with his favorite hobby and talent, gardening. He loved sharing vegetables, fruits and plants with family, friends and neighbors. He was a quiet, gentle, Christian man whose actions spoke louder than words. During his lifetime he helped to build three churches with his labor, prayer and generosity. He was named as a life time Deacon after serving as Deacon for Fairview Church of the Brethren, Rocky Mount First Church of the Brethren and then again at Fairview. He also served as Treasurer at each church for many years. Funeral services will be conducted from Fairview Church of the Brethren 2 p.m. Wednesday with Pastor Jeff Wray and Rev. Robert Williard officiating. Interment will follow in Franklin Memorial Park. A heartfelt thanks is extended to Mildred Dalton, Doris Hodges, Johnny Sheesley, Ben Pinkard, Dan Maddy, Carilion Hospice of Franklin County and many friends for the care and concern expressed to the family. His family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Fairview Church of the Brethren. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.