James Thoma Foster

We are saddened to announce the passing of James T. Foster on November 16, 2025. At 92 years of age, "Mickey" as he was called by all who knew him, lived a life of service to his family, his community and to his Creator. The second of four sons, Mickey was born in High Point, NC on August 21, 1933. After moving with his family to Galax, VA and graduating high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was a proud veteran of the Korean War. Mickey was Honorably Discharged in 1954 and married Barbara Jean Orr also of Galax, VA. Through the G.I. Bill, he continued his studies graduating from Virginia Tech in 1959 with a B.S. in Business Administration and a Master of Education from S.C. State College in 1973. After settling in Florence, SC with his family, Mickey spent twenty-six years in Education at Florence-Darlington Technical College, retiring as Vice President in 1994.

Mickey and Barbara made their professional lives in Florence, raising two sons, James (Jimmy) Harrison Foster and Robert (Bobby) Orr Foster. Actively involved with the Jaycees and their sponsorship of the Miss Florence Pageant, Mickey on several occasions substituted as contestant number 13 when none of the competitors wanted to have this unlucky number, and while he could manage in evening gown, he did not have the legs for the swimsuit competition.

After the loss of Barbara in 1996, Mickey was introduced to Patricia Blackwell Stokes of Sumter, SC and they married in 1998. Upon her retirement the couple relocated to Myrtle Beach to be near her son and daughter-in-law, Chuck and Diane DeVaughn Stokes.

Mickey was predeceased by his wife, Barbars Jean, his oldest son, Jimmy along with his brothers, Bud and David. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, brother William (Skipper), son Bobby, grandchildren, Jamie, Keegan, Kylie, Kody, Diamond, and Robert, along with seven great-grandchildren, and his wife's family, Chuck and Diane Stokes.

Mickey loved to travel and play golf (when he was able). He was also an accomplished artist specializing in colored pencils, and on occasion, engaged in a little low-stakes poker with his friends at Covenant Towers. He didn't like to sit still. When the sun came up, there were things to do. According to him, sitting around was just "burnin daylight". At First Presbyterian Church in Myrtle Beach, Mickey was active, serving his second term as deacon and at 92 years of age he had the distinction of being the oldest deacon in the church's history. He was dedicated to his family never missing a birthday or special occasion and he always bent over backwards to be the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather he could be. For a little fella, he had an oversized heart.

On Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the afternoon, we will gather at Covenant Towers, 5001 Little River Road, in Myrtle Beach to celebrate and remember Mickey. All who knew him are welcome to come, meet with the family and share a story or two if they so please.

Cremation Services Direct (843-651-1194) of Myrtle Beach is assisting the family with arrangements.