FOSTER, DR. J. LEE was born August 9, 1928 in Dallas, Texas to the parentage of Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster. Both parents, his daughter, Essie; brother, John Foster; sister, Jeraline Foster; nephews, Ronnie Foster and Raymond G. Foster, Jr., and niece, Georgette Brown precede him in death.
Dr. J. Lee Foster and Mrs. Annie Pearl Foster founded and organized the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park on December 28, 1954 with 7 faithful members. The vision was born. God's faithfulness to the vision was further realized on December 28, 1964, at the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern church edifice in the Hamilton Park Community. The church remained in the Hamilton Park Community until they outgrew the facility. With God's unceasing faithfulness and support from the congregation, the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park relocated August 19, 1986, to become the first African American church in downtown Richardson.
Dr. Foster's greatest achievement was May 15, 1992, when he was the first African-American recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the Criswell College. "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase." Words from the late W.A. Criswell.
Pastor Foster's memoirs will be treasured by: his loving wife of 56 years, Annie Pearl; sons - Gregory (Nichole) and Anthony (Donna); 10 grandchildren - LaTrice, Jennifer, Whitney, Taylor, Brandon (Abbey), Jessica, Miriam, Noelle, Joel and Joshua; two uncles Mirrien E. Foster of Compton, CA. and Jardine Foster of Detroit, Ml.; two aunts - Erma M. Williams of Los Angeles, CA. and Chaney Venters Robinson (Pastor R.M.) of Dallas; three sisters - Carnell Foster Beamon (Percy), Hazel Foster McClenon of Los Angeles, CA. and Margaret Foster Lewis of Dallas; four brothers - Raymond G. Foster, Sr. (Gloria), Roosevelt M. Foster (Hazel), Moses R. Foster (Laura) and Robert L. Foster (Alfreda) all of Dallas; 27 nieces and nephews and numerous extended family and loved ones.
In addition to flowers being sent, a memorial fund has been established with the Dallas Nephrology Associates, c/o Dr. Lauren McDonald, 6010 Forest Park, Ste. 100, Dallas, TX 75235 to assist impoverished patients who are in need of kidney dialysis.
There will be a visitation from 11-5pm today. Service 11am Wednesday both to be held at First Baptist Church Hamilton Park 300 E. Phillips Richardson, TX. 75081. Lincoln Funeral Home & Memorial Parks 8100 Fireside Dr. Dallas TX (214) 398-8133
Source: Published in the Dallas News, 2/11/03
"And He said, Hear now my words: If there is a prophet among you, I The Lord make Myself known to him in a vision and speak to him in a dream. Numbers 12:6
"J. Lee Foster has the rare gift of preparing his sermons with the Bible in one hand, and the newspaper in the other, relating God's work to everyday issues." Rev. Dr. Zan Holmes
In the early 1900s, the African American community in America was challenged with problems of discrimination. It affected every facet of Black life including economics, living accommodations, and even the freedom to worship. But that did not deter a young man by the name of Jesse Lee Foster from yielding to God's call.
Born August 8, 1928, Jesse Lee Foster, commonly called ‘Jesse Lee' by his family and close friends, was born and raised in East Dallas, Texas with nine (9) siblings . . . (5) five brothers and four (4) sisters. His parents, Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster, taught them the value of hard work. Jesse Lee had a special relationship with his mom and grandmother who instilled in him at a very young age to ". . . seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you. . . "
As Jesse Lee grew older and became an adult, experiencing many difficult challenges as a young man, he always relied on the teaching of his parents and the many conversations he shared with his grandmother. Determined to "do something with his life and make a difference," he enrolled in Bishop College. At Bishop, his thirst for an education and knowledge increased. The anointing of God in his life became evident to him and his spiritual mentors. He, however, continued to pursue his education; but the passion to serve a greater calling kept burning in his heart. Moving around in the State of Texas, Jesse Lee went to Odessa, Texas to work in Christian Education. There he met the prominent and respected minister, Reverend L.C. Smith. Rev. Smith mentored Jesse Lee and later encouraged him to return to his hometown, Dallas, to start a ministry. He did!
When Jesse Lee arrived back in Dallas, he started out on his mission to begin a ministry which God had ordained and given him literally the day he was born. He kept getting reassurances that he was headed in the right direction. He listened to the voice of God and kept obeying his yearning. He called his ministry, First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park. Not without challenges and obstacles, J. Lee persevered. One afternoon, a miracle happened. Before walking out of his house, J. Lee received a phone call from Charles Hanger. This call was destined to change Jesse Lee's ministry forever.
First Baptist Church of Hamilton (FBCHP) had been meeting on Oberlin Drive, a segregated and up scale Black community. He, however, had been meeting in a restricted area of that community since starting the church. His vision was clear and it was apparent that this was an area that needed the kind of ministry which God had given him. The ministry was growing. J. Lee needed space. Later, the ministry caught the attention of a black contractor named J. B. Phillips. Phillips contacted J. Lee about 4 lots for sale on Bunche Street, a dumping ground. Excited and awed by the call and dealing with meager resources, he remembered what his grandmother told him, "If God calls you, the Lord will qualify you."
Even though the ministry was growing, Pastor J. Lee Foster had to work a full time job to take care of his family. He worked six (6) days a week and 12 years in a Dallas Shoe Shop and did his ministry work in the evening. Over 10 years, he refused to take any compensation from the church. He felt obligated to bring ministries, biblical and Christian education, training and teaching to a segregated community (African American) which had been ignored and overlooked. From the "dumping" ground" Southeast of High-five Interchange and North Central Expressway (U.S. 75 and I-635) rose one of the most influential churches, rich in tradition and contemporary in vision, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area.
Pastor Foster was a Drum Major for the Gospel. He preached throughout the United States but seldom accepted invitations because he wanted to stay near home to feed and shepherd the flock God had given him. He was an innovator and born leader. In the 1950s, he organized a popular Gospel Quartet group called ‘The Evening Stars.' Recognized as one of Dallas/Fort Worth "Living Legends" by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), Pastor Foster's photo hangs on the wall among the Gallery of Greats at TBAAL. On May 15 1992, Rev. J. Lee Foster was the first African-American to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Criswell College.
The late W.A. Criswell said, "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase."
He mentored, even his own sons, numerous emerging and aspiring young preaches who often called him "Pops." Literally hundreds of his preaching sons are now pastoring major congregations throughout the world. He would often encourage and give them uncompromising words of wisdom saying, "son, read yourself full; think yourself clear; pray yourself up; and get in the pulpit and let yourself go." Up until his death in February 2003, Pastor Foster was preaching, giving advice and still had that "charm and quick wit."
His voice will never be silenced. Those who have been touched by his ministry for decades will always remember the Moments, the Memories, and the Mission J. Lee Foster left behind. We remember Pastor Foster and his wife, Annie Pearl, who founded and organized the ministry on December 28, 1954. We remember the seven (7) faithful members who followed Pastor Foster's vision and many who saw it flourish to a membership of over 4,000 at the time of his death. He once quoted, "Sometimes our eyes need to be washed by our tears so that we can see life with a clearer vision again." That vision was clear and it was evident from the beginning.
"Jesse Lee" "J. Lee," "Pastor," "Pops," "Rev. Foster," "Dr. Foster," always remembered his humble beginnings and he loved the Lord. When he would sit and ponder from that "dumping'"ground," he would say in that soft spoken voice, "Look at what the Lord has done. He's brought us from cotton pickin' to key punchin'!"
As a pioneering minister in the modern day church, the Reverend Dr. Jesse Lee Foster left an endearing legacy for generations to continue "Walking in the Word" and serving Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The J. Lee Foster School of Biblical Studies now bears the esteemed founder's name.
Source: GrimCo Productions
Dr. J. Lee Foster and Mrs. Annie Pearl Foster founded and organized the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park on December 28, 1954 with 7 faithful members. The vision was born. God's faithfulness to the vision was further realized on December 28, 1964, at the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern church edifice in the Hamilton Park Community. The church remained in the Hamilton Park Community until they outgrew the facility. With God's unceasing faithfulness and support from the congregation, the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park relocated August 19, 1986, to become the first African American church in downtown Richardson.
Dr. Foster's greatest achievement was May 15, 1992, when he was the first African-American recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the Criswell College. "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase." Words from the late W.A. Criswell.
Pastor Foster's memoirs will be treasured by: his loving wife of 56 years, Annie Pearl; sons - Gregory (Nichole) and Anthony (Donna); 10 grandchildren - LaTrice, Jennifer, Whitney, Taylor, Brandon (Abbey), Jessica, Miriam, Noelle, Joel and Joshua; two uncles Mirrien E. Foster of Compton, CA. and Jardine Foster of Detroit, Ml.; two aunts - Erma M. Williams of Los Angeles, CA. and Chaney Venters Robinson (Pastor R.M.) of Dallas; three sisters - Carnell Foster Beamon (Percy), Hazel Foster McClenon of Los Angeles, CA. and Margaret Foster Lewis of Dallas; four brothers - Raymond G. Foster, Sr. (Gloria), Roosevelt M. Foster (Hazel), Moses R. Foster (Laura) and Robert L. Foster (Alfreda) all of Dallas; 27 nieces and nephews and numerous extended family and loved ones.
In addition to flowers being sent, a memorial fund has been established with the Dallas Nephrology Associates, c/o Dr. Lauren McDonald, 6010 Forest Park, Ste. 100, Dallas, TX 75235 to assist impoverished patients who are in need of kidney dialysis.
There will be a visitation from 11-5pm today. Service 11am Wednesday both to be held at First Baptist Church Hamilton Park 300 E. Phillips Richardson, TX. 75081. Lincoln Funeral Home & Memorial Parks 8100 Fireside Dr. Dallas TX (214) 398-8133
Source: Published in the Dallas News, 2/11/03
"And He said, Hear now my words: If there is a prophet among you, I The Lord make Myself known to him in a vision and speak to him in a dream. Numbers 12:6
"J. Lee Foster has the rare gift of preparing his sermons with the Bible in one hand, and the newspaper in the other, relating God's work to everyday issues." Rev. Dr. Zan Holmes
In the early 1900s, the African American community in America was challenged with problems of discrimination. It affected every facet of Black life including economics, living accommodations, and even the freedom to worship. But that did not deter a young man by the name of Jesse Lee Foster from yielding to God's call.
Born August 8, 1928, Jesse Lee Foster, commonly called ‘Jesse Lee' by his family and close friends, was born and raised in East Dallas, Texas with nine (9) siblings . . . (5) five brothers and four (4) sisters. His parents, Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster, taught them the value of hard work. Jesse Lee had a special relationship with his mom and grandmother who instilled in him at a very young age to ". . . seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you. . . "
As Jesse Lee grew older and became an adult, experiencing many difficult challenges as a young man, he always relied on the teaching of his parents and the many conversations he shared with his grandmother. Determined to "do something with his life and make a difference," he enrolled in Bishop College. At Bishop, his thirst for an education and knowledge increased. The anointing of God in his life became evident to him and his spiritual mentors. He, however, continued to pursue his education; but the passion to serve a greater calling kept burning in his heart. Moving around in the State of Texas, Jesse Lee went to Odessa, Texas to work in Christian Education. There he met the prominent and respected minister, Reverend L.C. Smith. Rev. Smith mentored Jesse Lee and later encouraged him to return to his hometown, Dallas, to start a ministry. He did!
When Jesse Lee arrived back in Dallas, he started out on his mission to begin a ministry which God had ordained and given him literally the day he was born. He kept getting reassurances that he was headed in the right direction. He listened to the voice of God and kept obeying his yearning. He called his ministry, First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park. Not without challenges and obstacles, J. Lee persevered. One afternoon, a miracle happened. Before walking out of his house, J. Lee received a phone call from Charles Hanger. This call was destined to change Jesse Lee's ministry forever.
First Baptist Church of Hamilton (FBCHP) had been meeting on Oberlin Drive, a segregated and up scale Black community. He, however, had been meeting in a restricted area of that community since starting the church. His vision was clear and it was apparent that this was an area that needed the kind of ministry which God had given him. The ministry was growing. J. Lee needed space. Later, the ministry caught the attention of a black contractor named J. B. Phillips. Phillips contacted J. Lee about 4 lots for sale on Bunche Street, a dumping ground. Excited and awed by the call and dealing with meager resources, he remembered what his grandmother told him, "If God calls you, the Lord will qualify you."
Even though the ministry was growing, Pastor J. Lee Foster had to work a full time job to take care of his family. He worked six (6) days a week and 12 years in a Dallas Shoe Shop and did his ministry work in the evening. Over 10 years, he refused to take any compensation from the church. He felt obligated to bring ministries, biblical and Christian education, training and teaching to a segregated community (African American) which had been ignored and overlooked. From the "dumping" ground" Southeast of High-five Interchange and North Central Expressway (U.S. 75 and I-635) rose one of the most influential churches, rich in tradition and contemporary in vision, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area.
Pastor Foster was a Drum Major for the Gospel. He preached throughout the United States but seldom accepted invitations because he wanted to stay near home to feed and shepherd the flock God had given him. He was an innovator and born leader. In the 1950s, he organized a popular Gospel Quartet group called ‘The Evening Stars.' Recognized as one of Dallas/Fort Worth "Living Legends" by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), Pastor Foster's photo hangs on the wall among the Gallery of Greats at TBAAL. On May 15 1992, Rev. J. Lee Foster was the first African-American to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Criswell College.
The late W.A. Criswell said, "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase."
He mentored, even his own sons, numerous emerging and aspiring young preaches who often called him "Pops." Literally hundreds of his preaching sons are now pastoring major congregations throughout the world. He would often encourage and give them uncompromising words of wisdom saying, "son, read yourself full; think yourself clear; pray yourself up; and get in the pulpit and let yourself go." Up until his death in February 2003, Pastor Foster was preaching, giving advice and still had that "charm and quick wit."
His voice will never be silenced. Those who have been touched by his ministry for decades will always remember the Moments, the Memories, and the Mission J. Lee Foster left behind. We remember Pastor Foster and his wife, Annie Pearl, who founded and organized the ministry on December 28, 1954. We remember the seven (7) faithful members who followed Pastor Foster's vision and many who saw it flourish to a membership of over 4,000 at the time of his death. He once quoted, "Sometimes our eyes need to be washed by our tears so that we can see life with a clearer vision again." That vision was clear and it was evident from the beginning.
"Jesse Lee" "J. Lee," "Pastor," "Pops," "Rev. Foster," "Dr. Foster," always remembered his humble beginnings and he loved the Lord. When he would sit and ponder from that "dumping'"ground," he would say in that soft spoken voice, "Look at what the Lord has done. He's brought us from cotton pickin' to key punchin'!"
As a pioneering minister in the modern day church, the Reverend Dr. Jesse Lee Foster left an endearing legacy for generations to continue "Walking in the Word" and serving Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The J. Lee Foster School of Biblical Studies now bears the esteemed founder's name.
Source: GrimCo Productions
FOSTER, DR. J. LEE was born August 9, 1928 in Dallas, Texas to the parentage of Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster. Both parents, his daughter, Essie; brother, John Foster; sister, Jeraline Foster; nephews, Ronnie Foster and Raymond G. Foster, Jr., and niece, Georgette Brown precede him in death.
Dr. J. Lee Foster and Mrs. Annie Pearl Foster founded and organized the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park on December 28, 1954 with 7 faithful members. The vision was born. God's faithfulness to the vision was further realized on December 28, 1964, at the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern church edifice in the Hamilton Park Community. The church remained in the Hamilton Park Community until they outgrew the facility. With God's unceasing faithfulness and support from the congregation, the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park relocated August 19, 1986, to become the first African American church in downtown Richardson.
Dr. Foster's greatest achievement was May 15, 1992, when he was the first African-American recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the Criswell College. "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase." Words from the late W.A. Criswell.
Pastor Foster's memoirs will be treasured by: his loving wife of 56 years, Annie Pearl; sons - Gregory (Nichole) and Anthony (Donna); 10 grandchildren - LaTrice, Jennifer, Whitney, Taylor, Brandon (Abbey), Jessica, Miriam, Noelle, Joel and Joshua; two uncles Mirrien E. Foster of Compton, CA. and Jardine Foster of Detroit, Ml.; two aunts - Erma M. Williams of Los Angeles, CA. and Chaney Venters Robinson (Pastor R.M.) of Dallas; three sisters - Carnell Foster Beamon (Percy), Hazel Foster McClenon of Los Angeles, CA. and Margaret Foster Lewis of Dallas; four brothers - Raymond G. Foster, Sr. (Gloria), Roosevelt M. Foster (Hazel), Moses R. Foster (Laura) and Robert L. Foster (Alfreda) all of Dallas; 27 nieces and nephews and numerous extended family and loved ones.
In addition to flowers being sent, a memorial fund has been established with the Dallas Nephrology Associates, c/o Dr. Lauren McDonald, 6010 Forest Park, Ste. 100, Dallas, TX 75235 to assist impoverished patients who are in need of kidney dialysis.
There will be a visitation from 11-5pm today. Service 11am Wednesday both to be held at First Baptist Church Hamilton Park 300 E. Phillips Richardson, TX. 75081. Lincoln Funeral Home & Memorial Parks 8100 Fireside Dr. Dallas TX (214) 398-8133
Source: Published in the Dallas News, 2/11/03
"And He said, Hear now my words: If there is a prophet among you, I The Lord make Myself known to him in a vision and speak to him in a dream. Numbers 12:6
"J. Lee Foster has the rare gift of preparing his sermons with the Bible in one hand, and the newspaper in the other, relating God's work to everyday issues." Rev. Dr. Zan Holmes
In the early 1900s, the African American community in America was challenged with problems of discrimination. It affected every facet of Black life including economics, living accommodations, and even the freedom to worship. But that did not deter a young man by the name of Jesse Lee Foster from yielding to God's call.
Born August 8, 1928, Jesse Lee Foster, commonly called ‘Jesse Lee' by his family and close friends, was born and raised in East Dallas, Texas with nine (9) siblings . . . (5) five brothers and four (4) sisters. His parents, Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster, taught them the value of hard work. Jesse Lee had a special relationship with his mom and grandmother who instilled in him at a very young age to ". . . seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you. . . "
As Jesse Lee grew older and became an adult, experiencing many difficult challenges as a young man, he always relied on the teaching of his parents and the many conversations he shared with his grandmother. Determined to "do something with his life and make a difference," he enrolled in Bishop College. At Bishop, his thirst for an education and knowledge increased. The anointing of God in his life became evident to him and his spiritual mentors. He, however, continued to pursue his education; but the passion to serve a greater calling kept burning in his heart. Moving around in the State of Texas, Jesse Lee went to Odessa, Texas to work in Christian Education. There he met the prominent and respected minister, Reverend L.C. Smith. Rev. Smith mentored Jesse Lee and later encouraged him to return to his hometown, Dallas, to start a ministry. He did!
When Jesse Lee arrived back in Dallas, he started out on his mission to begin a ministry which God had ordained and given him literally the day he was born. He kept getting reassurances that he was headed in the right direction. He listened to the voice of God and kept obeying his yearning. He called his ministry, First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park. Not without challenges and obstacles, J. Lee persevered. One afternoon, a miracle happened. Before walking out of his house, J. Lee received a phone call from Charles Hanger. This call was destined to change Jesse Lee's ministry forever.
First Baptist Church of Hamilton (FBCHP) had been meeting on Oberlin Drive, a segregated and up scale Black community. He, however, had been meeting in a restricted area of that community since starting the church. His vision was clear and it was apparent that this was an area that needed the kind of ministry which God had given him. The ministry was growing. J. Lee needed space. Later, the ministry caught the attention of a black contractor named J. B. Phillips. Phillips contacted J. Lee about 4 lots for sale on Bunche Street, a dumping ground. Excited and awed by the call and dealing with meager resources, he remembered what his grandmother told him, "If God calls you, the Lord will qualify you."
Even though the ministry was growing, Pastor J. Lee Foster had to work a full time job to take care of his family. He worked six (6) days a week and 12 years in a Dallas Shoe Shop and did his ministry work in the evening. Over 10 years, he refused to take any compensation from the church. He felt obligated to bring ministries, biblical and Christian education, training and teaching to a segregated community (African American) which had been ignored and overlooked. From the "dumping" ground" Southeast of High-five Interchange and North Central Expressway (U.S. 75 and I-635) rose one of the most influential churches, rich in tradition and contemporary in vision, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area.
Pastor Foster was a Drum Major for the Gospel. He preached throughout the United States but seldom accepted invitations because he wanted to stay near home to feed and shepherd the flock God had given him. He was an innovator and born leader. In the 1950s, he organized a popular Gospel Quartet group called ‘The Evening Stars.' Recognized as one of Dallas/Fort Worth "Living Legends" by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), Pastor Foster's photo hangs on the wall among the Gallery of Greats at TBAAL. On May 15 1992, Rev. J. Lee Foster was the first African-American to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Criswell College.
The late W.A. Criswell said, "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase."
He mentored, even his own sons, numerous emerging and aspiring young preaches who often called him "Pops." Literally hundreds of his preaching sons are now pastoring major congregations throughout the world. He would often encourage and give them uncompromising words of wisdom saying, "son, read yourself full; think yourself clear; pray yourself up; and get in the pulpit and let yourself go." Up until his death in February 2003, Pastor Foster was preaching, giving advice and still had that "charm and quick wit."
His voice will never be silenced. Those who have been touched by his ministry for decades will always remember the Moments, the Memories, and the Mission J. Lee Foster left behind. We remember Pastor Foster and his wife, Annie Pearl, who founded and organized the ministry on December 28, 1954. We remember the seven (7) faithful members who followed Pastor Foster's vision and many who saw it flourish to a membership of over 4,000 at the time of his death. He once quoted, "Sometimes our eyes need to be washed by our tears so that we can see life with a clearer vision again." That vision was clear and it was evident from the beginning.
"Jesse Lee" "J. Lee," "Pastor," "Pops," "Rev. Foster," "Dr. Foster," always remembered his humble beginnings and he loved the Lord. When he would sit and ponder from that "dumping'"ground," he would say in that soft spoken voice, "Look at what the Lord has done. He's brought us from cotton pickin' to key punchin'!"
As a pioneering minister in the modern day church, the Reverend Dr. Jesse Lee Foster left an endearing legacy for generations to continue "Walking in the Word" and serving Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The J. Lee Foster School of Biblical Studies now bears the esteemed founder's name.
Source: GrimCo Productions
Dr. J. Lee Foster and Mrs. Annie Pearl Foster founded and organized the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park on December 28, 1954 with 7 faithful members. The vision was born. God's faithfulness to the vision was further realized on December 28, 1964, at the groundbreaking ceremony for a modern church edifice in the Hamilton Park Community. The church remained in the Hamilton Park Community until they outgrew the facility. With God's unceasing faithfulness and support from the congregation, the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park relocated August 19, 1986, to become the first African American church in downtown Richardson.
Dr. Foster's greatest achievement was May 15, 1992, when he was the first African-American recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the Criswell College. "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase." Words from the late W.A. Criswell.
Pastor Foster's memoirs will be treasured by: his loving wife of 56 years, Annie Pearl; sons - Gregory (Nichole) and Anthony (Donna); 10 grandchildren - LaTrice, Jennifer, Whitney, Taylor, Brandon (Abbey), Jessica, Miriam, Noelle, Joel and Joshua; two uncles Mirrien E. Foster of Compton, CA. and Jardine Foster of Detroit, Ml.; two aunts - Erma M. Williams of Los Angeles, CA. and Chaney Venters Robinson (Pastor R.M.) of Dallas; three sisters - Carnell Foster Beamon (Percy), Hazel Foster McClenon of Los Angeles, CA. and Margaret Foster Lewis of Dallas; four brothers - Raymond G. Foster, Sr. (Gloria), Roosevelt M. Foster (Hazel), Moses R. Foster (Laura) and Robert L. Foster (Alfreda) all of Dallas; 27 nieces and nephews and numerous extended family and loved ones.
In addition to flowers being sent, a memorial fund has been established with the Dallas Nephrology Associates, c/o Dr. Lauren McDonald, 6010 Forest Park, Ste. 100, Dallas, TX 75235 to assist impoverished patients who are in need of kidney dialysis.
There will be a visitation from 11-5pm today. Service 11am Wednesday both to be held at First Baptist Church Hamilton Park 300 E. Phillips Richardson, TX. 75081. Lincoln Funeral Home & Memorial Parks 8100 Fireside Dr. Dallas TX (214) 398-8133
Source: Published in the Dallas News, 2/11/03
"And He said, Hear now my words: If there is a prophet among you, I The Lord make Myself known to him in a vision and speak to him in a dream. Numbers 12:6
"J. Lee Foster has the rare gift of preparing his sermons with the Bible in one hand, and the newspaper in the other, relating God's work to everyday issues." Rev. Dr. Zan Holmes
In the early 1900s, the African American community in America was challenged with problems of discrimination. It affected every facet of Black life including economics, living accommodations, and even the freedom to worship. But that did not deter a young man by the name of Jesse Lee Foster from yielding to God's call.
Born August 8, 1928, Jesse Lee Foster, commonly called ‘Jesse Lee' by his family and close friends, was born and raised in East Dallas, Texas with nine (9) siblings . . . (5) five brothers and four (4) sisters. His parents, Roosevelt and Gertie Biggers Foster, taught them the value of hard work. Jesse Lee had a special relationship with his mom and grandmother who instilled in him at a very young age to ". . . seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness and all of these things shall be added unto you. . . "
As Jesse Lee grew older and became an adult, experiencing many difficult challenges as a young man, he always relied on the teaching of his parents and the many conversations he shared with his grandmother. Determined to "do something with his life and make a difference," he enrolled in Bishop College. At Bishop, his thirst for an education and knowledge increased. The anointing of God in his life became evident to him and his spiritual mentors. He, however, continued to pursue his education; but the passion to serve a greater calling kept burning in his heart. Moving around in the State of Texas, Jesse Lee went to Odessa, Texas to work in Christian Education. There he met the prominent and respected minister, Reverend L.C. Smith. Rev. Smith mentored Jesse Lee and later encouraged him to return to his hometown, Dallas, to start a ministry. He did!
When Jesse Lee arrived back in Dallas, he started out on his mission to begin a ministry which God had ordained and given him literally the day he was born. He kept getting reassurances that he was headed in the right direction. He listened to the voice of God and kept obeying his yearning. He called his ministry, First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park. Not without challenges and obstacles, J. Lee persevered. One afternoon, a miracle happened. Before walking out of his house, J. Lee received a phone call from Charles Hanger. This call was destined to change Jesse Lee's ministry forever.
First Baptist Church of Hamilton (FBCHP) had been meeting on Oberlin Drive, a segregated and up scale Black community. He, however, had been meeting in a restricted area of that community since starting the church. His vision was clear and it was apparent that this was an area that needed the kind of ministry which God had given him. The ministry was growing. J. Lee needed space. Later, the ministry caught the attention of a black contractor named J. B. Phillips. Phillips contacted J. Lee about 4 lots for sale on Bunche Street, a dumping ground. Excited and awed by the call and dealing with meager resources, he remembered what his grandmother told him, "If God calls you, the Lord will qualify you."
Even though the ministry was growing, Pastor J. Lee Foster had to work a full time job to take care of his family. He worked six (6) days a week and 12 years in a Dallas Shoe Shop and did his ministry work in the evening. Over 10 years, he refused to take any compensation from the church. He felt obligated to bring ministries, biblical and Christian education, training and teaching to a segregated community (African American) which had been ignored and overlooked. From the "dumping" ground" Southeast of High-five Interchange and North Central Expressway (U.S. 75 and I-635) rose one of the most influential churches, rich in tradition and contemporary in vision, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metropolitan area.
Pastor Foster was a Drum Major for the Gospel. He preached throughout the United States but seldom accepted invitations because he wanted to stay near home to feed and shepherd the flock God had given him. He was an innovator and born leader. In the 1950s, he organized a popular Gospel Quartet group called ‘The Evening Stars.' Recognized as one of Dallas/Fort Worth "Living Legends" by The Black Academy of Arts and Letters (TBAAL), Pastor Foster's photo hangs on the wall among the Gallery of Greats at TBAAL. On May 15 1992, Rev. J. Lee Foster was the first African-American to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Criswell College.
The late W.A. Criswell said, "J. Lee Foster is a perfect example of a biblical vine dresser in the modern world. He plants the seed with the Word of God; he waters the seed with the Holy Spirit, and he cares for the increase."
He mentored, even his own sons, numerous emerging and aspiring young preaches who often called him "Pops." Literally hundreds of his preaching sons are now pastoring major congregations throughout the world. He would often encourage and give them uncompromising words of wisdom saying, "son, read yourself full; think yourself clear; pray yourself up; and get in the pulpit and let yourself go." Up until his death in February 2003, Pastor Foster was preaching, giving advice and still had that "charm and quick wit."
His voice will never be silenced. Those who have been touched by his ministry for decades will always remember the Moments, the Memories, and the Mission J. Lee Foster left behind. We remember Pastor Foster and his wife, Annie Pearl, who founded and organized the ministry on December 28, 1954. We remember the seven (7) faithful members who followed Pastor Foster's vision and many who saw it flourish to a membership of over 4,000 at the time of his death. He once quoted, "Sometimes our eyes need to be washed by our tears so that we can see life with a clearer vision again." That vision was clear and it was evident from the beginning.
"Jesse Lee" "J. Lee," "Pastor," "Pops," "Rev. Foster," "Dr. Foster," always remembered his humble beginnings and he loved the Lord. When he would sit and ponder from that "dumping'"ground," he would say in that soft spoken voice, "Look at what the Lord has done. He's brought us from cotton pickin' to key punchin'!"
As a pioneering minister in the modern day church, the Reverend Dr. Jesse Lee Foster left an endearing legacy for generations to continue "Walking in the Word" and serving Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The J. Lee Foster School of Biblical Studies now bears the esteemed founder's name.
Source: GrimCo Productions
Inscription
Together forever
Family Members
Children
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
Records on Ancestry
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
