Virgil Thomas Foster Sr.

Reverend Virgil Thomas Foster, Sr., 92, of Indio, Calif. passed away November 4, 2010 in Palm Desert, Calif. after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Senath, Mo. to Tevis and Minnie Foster. He was raised with four brothers and three sisters. Virgil and Hazel Maxine Vaughn were married on July 7, 1941 in Bragg City, Mo. They celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary this past summer. Virgil spent his youth in Missouri, but after being called by God to teach his word, he spent his life between Indio, Calif. and Dunklin County, Mo. spreading the good word. He was a revered pastor who started many churches, held several tent revivals, as well as brought numerous people to the Lord. In his time, Virgil was also a connection between God and his countless miracles. Although he officially retired from ministry in 1984, Virgil continued to inspire people with his minister throughout his life, even through his dying days. Virgil was a business man in his youth. He owned Foster and Sons Pest Control in Kennett, Mo. He built his business from the ground up. He became a beloved entrepreneur in the community. Virgil was also an avid equestrian in his life. He had a passionate love of horses, especially Tennessee Walking Horses. He rode horses in both competitions and for enjoyment all the way through most of his life. He was a life time member of the Riverside County Sheriff Posse, as well as a member of the Coachella Valley Vaquero. Preceding him in death were his father and mother; three brothers; two sisters; his daughter, Joyce; his grandson, Robert; and his great-grandson, Allen. Virgil is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Hazel; his son, Duane and wife Laverne; his daughter, Margaret and husband Holden; his daughter, Linda and husband Doug; his daughter, Sharon and husband Ray; his daughter, Charlotte and husband T.C.; his son, Thomas, Jr.; and son, Kenny and wife Kelly. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren and their respective spouses; 24 great-grandchildren and their respective spouses; three great-great grandchildren; one brother and one sister. Virgil has also never met a stranger in his life and has touched thousands of lives throughout his 92 years; therefore he is also survived by many, many other family and friends. Funeral services are to be held on Wednesday, November 10, 2010 at Forest Lawn Mortuary in Indio at 10:00 AM. Gravesite services to immediate follow the memorial at Coachella Valley Cemetery.
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