James Foster was born on May 12, 1943, to the late Robert Foster, Sr. and Luphelia Foster, in Helm, Mississippi.  James was preceded in death by his loving wife Arneda M. Foster, both parents, seven brothers and three sisters.

At the age of ten, James relocated from Mississippi to Kansas City, MO to be raised by Theodore and Mary Foster-Burtin (sister). During that time, James bonded with their children, Theodore Jr., Deloris, Mary Ann, and Richard, more as brothers and sisters, than as nieces and nephews.

James accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized by the late Rev. I. H. Henderson Jr. at Friendship Baptist Church of KCMO, where he remained a steadfast and dutiful member until his death.  As a long time and faithful member of 67 years, James participated and facilitated a variety of ministries within the Church. These included, but were not limited to: Leader and member of the Isaiah/Reuben Sheepfold, Finance Committee, Sunday school, Bus Ministry, and Usher Board Group 1.  Most importantly, while under the tutelage of Rev. C.E. McLain, James was ordained into the Deaconhood of Friendship Baptist Church, June 30, 1991. A position that he held near and dear to his heart. James also served five years as The Boy Scouts of America Troop Leader for Friendship Baptist Church. During this tenure, James mentored and taught many young men of Friendship.

James received his formal education from George Washington Carver, Sanford B. Ladd and Central High School all of KCMO. After graduating high school in 1961, James decided to enlist and serve his country, under the tutelage of The United States Army, in June 1963.  While in the Army, James served within the personnel department and was stationed in California, Pennsylvania, and Korea.  After completing his sworn duty, he was honorably discharged, March 1966.

Upon returning to Missouri, James united with his childhood friend, life-companion, and love Arneda Mae Wright in December 1968. God blessed this union with two daughters, Janeda Marie and Lora Lynn.

In February 1968, James secured employment with the United States Postal Service. During this time, he held various positions including Mail Handler, Mail Carrier Clerk, and Supervisor of the Leeds and Parkway Stations.

After 25 years of employment, James finalized his career, retiring in 1997.

James spent his remaining years enjoying time with his loving wife, children, and grandkids, all while traveling to attend graduations, weddings, family reunions and vacations.

On Sunday, July 31, 2022, James made his transition from labor to reward, to reunite with his dearly missed love, Arneda Mae, and all those who preceded him.

He leaves to cherish his memory forever: his loving daughters, Janeda (Victor) Oliver of Buford, GA, Lora Lynn Ledbetter of KCMO; three grandchildren, Sherelle Patrice Ledbetter of KCMO, Sheldon (Janie) Ledbetter Jr. of Omaha, NE, Elijah James Oliver of Buford, GA; one great-granddaughter, Sophia Lynn Ledbetter of Omaha, NE; eight sisters, Roberta Franklin of Saginaw MI, Luphelia Anderson, Doretha Eldridge, Velma Montgomery, and Dorothy Dean of Indianapolis, IN; Emma Stubbs of Kenosha, WI, Jessie Mae (Elton) Lewis and Barbara Cothran both of Chicago, IL; one brother, Charles Porter of Indianapolis, IN; sister in-law, Thomasine Long of KCMO; special friend, Ronald Jones of Stone Mountain, GA a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, the Friendship Baptist Church and United States Post Office families.

Services for Mr. Foster will be held 10:00 A.M., Monday August 8 2022, at Friendship Baptist Church. Burial Leavenworth National Cemetery. Friends may call from 9:00 A.M. until service time Monday at the Church.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.