William Joseph Foster

William Joseph Foster, 76, passed away on May 18th, in the company of his family.

Bill was born in New York City in 1937 to the late James and Florence Foster. He graduated from Stepinac High School and joined the Army. Bill met his love in 6th grade and married Ann Quigley in 1958 and they lived together in New York and retired to North Carolina.

Bill served in the New York State Air National Guard retiring as the Chief of Fabrication for the 105th Airlift Wing. He served with distinction for over 36 years leaving his post as a Master Sargent. His passion for his craftsmanship was demonstrated not only through his work in the Air Force and as a gunsmith but also through the hundreds of people he trained and mentored over his career.

Bill was an active member and former Chairman of the Parish Council of Saint Peter the Fisherman’s Church in Oriental, NC. He was instrumental, along with many members of this community of faith, in creating the vision and building the Church in 2000.

Bill is survived by three children and their spouses, James Foster and Matthew Cunningham from Illinois, William and Liliana Foster of Pennsylvania and Peter and Dru Foster from New York. He is also loved by 6 grandchildren, Ryan, Melissa, Michael, Caitlin, Emily and Casey Foster and 1 great grandchild, Audrey.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Saint Peter the Fisherman’s Cemetery Fund, 1149 White Farm Rd., Oriental, NC 28571.

A viewing will be held at Bryant Funeral Home, Alliance, NC on Wednesday, May 21 from 6:00 – 8:00 pm.

The Mass celebrating Bill’s life will be held at St. Peter the Fisherman on Friday, May 23 at 11:00 am with military honors.