Jarvis Linnell Foster

In the late evening of Friday, September 16, 1994, Jarvis Linnell Foster left this life to join his heavenly father and loved ones who had gone before him. He departed this life after a lengthy illness. He bore the illness with patience, hope, and faith that GOD had his destiny in HIS HANDS.

Jarvis was born in Washington, D.C on April 18, 1962, to Clara Maxine

Bennet. His biological father, Junius L. Williamson preceded him in death. He was adopted by Casters B. Foster shortly after the marriage to his mother.

Jarvis accepted Christ in December 1975 and was baptized on December 7,1975, at Potomac Baptist Church of Sterling, Virginia. He joined Potomac Baptist immediately after baptism and became active in youth activities, choir, and contributed in praise through special vocal music. He continued to maintain his membership throughout his short adult life.

He attended Broad Run High School in Ashburn, Virginia where he won

acclaim in track and football. He graduated from high school in 1980 and trained at Columbia School of Broadcasting in Washington, D. C. His short employment career, as an accountant, was ended due to illness and resulted in disability.

He leaves his mother and father, Clara Maxine and Casters B. Foster, of Sterling, VA; 2 brothers, Jarmel L. Foster, of Gaithersburg, MD, and Casters B Foster II of Houston, TX; 2 sisters, Catrina K. Foster, of Washington, D. C., and Casella B. Foster, of University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC; and I niece, Maxine Nicole Austin, of Gaithersburg, MD. A grandmother and grandfather, Pauline B. and Clyde M. Bennett, of Badin, NC., many aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends to celebrate his home going.

Lovingly Submitted

The Family

Home Going Services for

Mr. Jarvis Linnell Foster

1962 - 1994

Services

Saturday, September 24, 1994

Viewing: 10:00 AM

Service: 11:00 AM

Marshall's Funeral Home

4308 Suitland Road

Suitland, MD

INTERMENT

Maryland National Memorial Park

Laurel, Maryland

DEDICATION FROM THE FAMILY

God say the road was getting rough,

The hills were hard to climb:

He gently closed those loving eyes,

And whispered, "Peace Be Thine".

The weary hours, the days of pain,

The sleepless nights are past;

The ever-patient worn-out frame,

Has found sweet rest at last.

Order of Service

PROCESSIONAL....Nearer My God To Thee

PRAYER...Deacon Curtis Cherry

HYMN OF COMFORT...What A Friend We Have In Jesus

SCRIPTURES OF COMFORT...Cousins

Old Testament...LaTonya Barnes

New Testament...Tyqual Stanback

SOLO...

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CONDOLENCES...Doris Stanback

OBITUARY...Doris Stanback

SOLO...Tina Glover

EULOGY...Pastor Ken Sodergren

BENEDICTION...Rev. Willie M. Diggs

PARTING VIEW- RECESSIONAI.

THANK YOU

"Perhaps you sent a lovely card, or sat quietly in a chair,

Perhaps you sent u floral piece, if so, we saw it there.

Perhaps you spoke the kindest words, as any friend could say.

Perhaps you were not there at all, just thought of us that day.

Whatever you did to console our hearts, we thank you so

Much whatever the part.

A Tribute to Jarvis Linnell Foster

April 18, 1962 – September 16, 1994

Jarvis Linnell Foster lived a vibrant, loving, and multifaceted life, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. Born into an era marked by immense societal challenges, Jarvis navigated his life as a proud gay Black man during a time when the LGBTQ+ community faced significant stigma, discrimination, and fear. He confronted these adversities with resilience, courage, and a deep capacity for love.

The late 1980s and early 1990s were a period of significant struggle for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during the height of the AIDS epidemic. Misinformation, fear, and prejudice were rampant, and gay men, particularly men of color, bore the brunt of societal scapegoating. On top of these challenges, Jarvis also faced the complexities of being a Black man in an interracial relationship during a time when such unions often provoked prejudice and misunderstanding. Despite these obstacles, Jarvis and Paula shared a deep and meaningful love that transcended societal barriers.

Jarvis built a community of friends during his time in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, where he embraced life's simple joys. He delighted in going to the movies, singing, and spending time in Hollywood's vibrant LGBTQ+ spaces-a sanctuary for many who sought acceptance and understanding in an often unwelcoming world.

In August 1991, Jarvis met Paula Sadler, a connection that blossomed into a deeply meaningful romance. Their love endured despite the geographical distance created when Jarvis moved to Virginia in March 1992. Their relationship spanned from August 1991 to September 1994, a testament to their deep bond and shared dreams, which even included talks of marriage. Together, they created countless cherished memories: playing pool, with Jarvis teaching Paula the game; driving through the Hollywood Hills to marvel at the city lights; hanging out at the Santa Monica Pier, where Jarvis bought them matching rings-both of which they later lost; feeding squirrels peanuts at North Hollywood Park; taking walks; and sharing moments on the tree swing at his home.

One particularly vivid memory highlights Jarvis's calm courage. While walking down Sunset Boulevard, he and Paula were approached by a group of young thugs armed with a knife who demanded his wallet. Jarvis, with incredible composure, calmly handled the dangerous situation. When a police car happened to pass by, the assailants fled, leaving Paula and Jarvis unharmed. His bravery and quick thinking protected them both, showcasing his innate courage and strength under pressure.

Jarvis loved music, and he often expressed his feelings for Paula through song. One of their most treasured memories was walking together in North Hollywood, sharing a Walkman and listening to Somebody Loves You by Patti LaBelle on a cassette tape. As the song played, Jarvis sang it to Paula, his voice filled with love and tenderness. It became "their song," a poignant symbol of their bond. Paula loved hearing Jarvis sing, whether it was during their walks, at her performances, or in quiet moments they shared together.

They loved going to the movies, seeing films such as Child's Play 3, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Gladiator, Beauty and the Beast, and Cape Fear. Jarvis was a steadfast supporter of Paula's talents, always attending her performances and encouraging her pursuits in singing and acting. They visited the Hollywood Wax Museum together, spent peaceful days at the beach, and shared countless letters filled with love and encouragement that continued until Jarvis's untimely passing.

In September 1991, Jarvis took Paula to Commitment to Life V, a powerful benefit for AIDS Project Los Angeles at the Universal Amphitheatre. This star-studded event featured performers such as Bette Midler, Carol Channing, Tyne Daly, Richard Dreyfuss, Sarah Brightman, Jennifer Holliday, Melissa Manchester, Angela Lansbury, and The Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles. For Jarvis and Paula, the evening was a profound experience, reflecting their shared compassion and dedication to the fight against AIDS. Just weeks later, on October 10, 1991, they attended a Manhattan Transfer concert at the same venue, sharing a magical night celebrating their love of music and life.

A Personal Thank You by Paula Sadler

"Dear Jarvis, I love you and miss you. You showed me a beautiful and kind love at a time in my life when I needed it most. I know God put you in my life. You encouraged me to accomplish my dreams, pursue music, and finish my education. I cherish the time we had because I was in love and came to love you deeply. I know you are with God now. I have never loved or been loved quite the same since you left this earth. I hope one day to let someone into my heart again. Thank you for loving me. I look forward to meeting in Heaven again one day.

I was so sad that you were sick; I wish you would have been one of the lucky ones and lived. Now, with new therapies, people are undetectable. I loved your laugh, your smile, your loyalty, and the beautiful soul you shared with me.

I wrote you a letter on Saturday, January 7, 1995, at 8:44 PM to say goodbye. At the end, I wrote:

'You are gone away with God now. May you always be my Angel. You'll have to tell me all about it when I get there-in the blink of your eyes, though it will be 81 years or a hundred to me. Love always, your Pooh-Bear.'

In a letter I received from Mrs. Clara Foster, she wrote:

'Included are the materials you requested from Jarvis's remains. I have also enclosed some information you may be interested in. The Foster family has closed the book on that part of Jarvis's life and wishes you the best of luck with your future success.' – Mrs. Clara Foster

I am grateful to Mrs. Foster for providing me with the program and obituary from Jarvis's homegoing service, as well as the last letter I sent to him. To honor his memory, this special tribute has been written by me, Paula Sadler, to celebrate his full life and the love he gave to all who knew him. Jarvis will always be remembered, loved, and missed by those whose lives he touched."

Quote from Jarvis: "Pooh-Bear Loves Sweetie, Sweetie Loves Pooh-Bear-Bonded with Love & Truth." 2/25/1993

In Loving Memory-Paula Sadler 11:11am 1/7/2025