Paul Foster
December 18, 1956 ~ February 9, 2023
On Thursday February 9th, 2023, Paul Read Foster, loving husband, father and friend to many passed away way too soon at the age of 66. Paul was born December 18, 1956, in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. After graduating from Glendale High School in 1975, he attended MU and completed his bachelor's degree at SMSU in Springfield, Missouri. Paul and Lee were married June 22, 1987. Paul worked for various news outlets, later developing his own production company where he did freelance work until he relocated to Knoxville, Tennessee to work at Jupiter Entertainment. He was a talented photographer/videographer, mentor, friend, wonderful husband, father, and brother to many. He loved adventure, travel, and could find a fix for anything. He enjoyed weekend trips to the mountains, camping, kayaking on the river, playing an occasional round of golf, and was always looking for “deals” on cars. He is preceded in death by his mother and father Glen and Lena Foster, brothers Glen Foster and Jim Foster. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Lee, his children, Ashley, Bryan, and Allyson, and many nieces and nephews. Service dates and locations will be announced at a later time. Arrangements in the care of Compassion Funeral & Cremation Services, Nashville, TN (615) 857-9955. We proudly remain locally owned & operated.
You were a remarkable human being, Paul Foster. Thank you for touching all of our lives. We will love you forever, and we will miss you, brother. – Bobby McGee
I was playing golf with Paul and some of our Jupiter golfing buddies. He was playing decent until we got to a par 5 and it was like one of the last 5 holes. Paul duffed it off the tee. Duffed it again. He really struggled and carded an 11. Not good. But Paul is Paul and he stayed calm. Kept going. Finished the next 4 holes one under. He never quit. Always stayed positive. In that moment, he taught me that even when everything is falling apart, life is to be enjoyed not endured. We love you, Paul Foster.
Paul was the best part of my job. When I knew I was overreacting, I’d go into his office and he’d be so kind, listen, then give me advice. I always listened to what he had to say. Monday mornings we’d stand outside and chat about what shenanigans each of our respective departments had gotten into while we went there. He was a dad to all of us. I will cherish every word and minute I shared with him. There has never been a man like Paul Foster and there never will be again. When he talked about Lee or his kids, his whole face lit up like nothing in the world mattered. Only them. I’m so thankful they shared him with all of us. I’m thankful to have called him a friend.
Prayers for the family
Q: Describe where Paul worked and what they did A: Paul was an intregal part of KYTV’s (Springfield, MO) success in the 80’s. He was a creative, curious photographer and, beyond that, a gentle, sweet man. I recall asking him to put together an “F-Stop” after the first week of officers trying to find a murder fugitive in Rolla, Mo. It was a daunting task, as we had such an abundance of material to put in a 2-or 2:30 piece. He reviewed everything, then went to the scene to augment his vision. It was masterful. He had such a dedication to work and such inspiration to his artwork. He is someone for all of us to strive to emulate. Passion, drive–tempered with humility and grace–and the greatest love for his family-Joyce Reed Sterling
Lee and family, I am so very sorry for the loss of Paul. Prayers for peace and comfort for you.
Sending our love to Lee and the kids. We are heartbroken Such fond memories of Paul. Truly an awesome friend, Dad and Husband. We’re lucky to have been his friends. ❤️. Donnie and Kyle
Have been grieving and praying with all of you. Am certain he was welcomed into the next world because he was loved so much in this one. A beautiful man!!!!
Much love & prayers! xo