James Everette Foster

1933-2016

On January 28, 2016, Jim Foster of Springfield, VA peacefully passed away. Jim leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Vivian Pogue Foster, son Stan Foster (wife Sarah) Wil and Meg of Brookhaven, MS, daughter Anita Foster Russell (husband Ramsey) Forrest, Duncan, and Parker of Brandon, MS.

James Everette Foster was born October 12, 1933 in Yazoo City, MS. After graduating from Maben High School, Jim graduated from Mississippi State University in 1955 with a BS degree, earned a CPA, and later a MBA from American University. He served 3 years in the Army with Army Audit Agency in Europe and spent the next 30 years in service to the US Government. After retirement, Jim worked for various CPA firms as an independent contractor. But Jim’s greatest rewards came from teaching. Jim taught accounting classes for the University of Virginia (Falls Church campus) for 25 years and spent 21 of those years also teaching for Ingram CPA Review. He also spent a few years teaching for George Mason University. Jim’s passion for teaching and helping others inspired many students. Jim was known for offering each student a dollar bill on the night of final exams along with a simple plea to return the loan after they had achieved an important career goal. Over the years, many dollar bills were returned with amazing stories of perseverance and appreciation for his encouragement.

Jim had a family who adored him, many wonderful friends, and was a believer and follower of Jesus Christ. There is no way to put into words how much Jim was loved by his family and closest friends. He was a man of true character. He leaves behind a life of hard work, honesty, devotion to family, integrity, and honor. He instilled these values in those who loved him most, and that is his greatest legacy.

Jim was a member of Messiah United Methodist Church in Springfield, VA where a memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 13, 2016 at 2:00pm. The family thanks all of the many caregivers who have compassionately cared for Jim throughout his illness. In lieu of flowers, charitable donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the charity of choice.