Samuel "Sam" Douglas Foster

"Gentle," "calm," and "laid back" could describe Samuel Douglas Foster well. But when he slipped that worn Auburn football cap on his head and clutched his acoustic guitar, that man could jam with the best!

A tragic automobile accident Tuesday night, April 23, 2013 claimed the life of one of Birmingham, Alabama's favorite entertainers. The 35-year-old Foster singlehandedly energized crowds with the songs he wrote and his renditions of James Taylor hits, or he and friends would form musical duos, trios, and quartets to entertain on the spur of the moment. Many of Sam's songs are also heard on 106.9 FM The Eagle, the radio station where he worked behind the scenes as a promotions assistant and sound engineer.

A U.S. Marines Veteran and graduate of Shades Mountain Christian School, Sam charmed many an audience with his wide smile and guitar-picking prowess. But the Dallas, TX native's heart truly belonged to his young son, Cameron. Sam cherished every moment with Cameron. Some of their best times were spent lounging around the Pelham, Alabama home of Sam's parents, Doug and Jeanne Foster, who nurtured his musical talents and deep faith in God.

In addition to his son and parents, Sam leaves behind his brother, Matthew Foster (Selena) of Homewood, Alabama; twin sister, Susanna Foster Gary (Richard) of Vestavia Hills, Alabama; half-brother, Matthew Bullard of Knoxville, Tennessee; maternal grandmother, Pearl Desautel of Pelham; nephew and nieces, William Foster, Katherine Foster, and Madison Gary; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Preceding Sam in death were his maternal grandfather, Edward Desautel, and paternal grandparents, Irving D. Foster Sr. and Minnie Ann Foster.

The family will greet Sam's friends and business associates from 12 noon until the 2 p.m. celebration of his life on Saturday, April 27, 2013 in the chapel of Ridout's Southern Heritage Funeral Home, Pelham. Burial will follow in the cemetery at Oak Mountain Baptist Church, where Sam was a member and former worship leader.

Visit any Cadence Bank location to give to the Sam Foster Memorial Fund for Cameron's education. Or, memorial gifts may go to Alabama Baptist Children's Homes & Family Ministries.