On Sunday, February 1, our beloved Pastor Tony went to be with the Lord. Our hearts are saddened but assured and comforted that he has entered into eternal rest. His many gifts, love for us and many teachings will be missed. We thank God for the life and legacy of Anthony D. Foster. We are reminded of the last sermon shared by him, “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” Matthew 6:33-34 January 25, 2015.

Trusting and acknowledging God is in Anthony D. Foster’s DNA. The youngest sibling of three, Anthony grew up in a spiritual family environment where “God” was always first and foremost. The son of the Organizing Pastor of the First Baptist Church of Hamilton Park (FBCHP), Dr. J. Lee Foster, Anthony spent his early childhood observing and walking in his father’s footsteps of becoming a gifted orator and preacher. A master at integrating metaphors into his sermons, with sound biblical doctrines, is a testament of his father’s teachings which Anthony understood at a young age.

Anthony’s father always told him, “son, you got the burning, but you got to get the learning.” Even though Anthony had the gift of preaching and a natural musical talent, his father demanded that he use his “burning” gift to further his education. After graduating from the Richardson Independent School District, Anthony enrolled in the Southern Bible Institute focusing his educational endeavors on Biblical Studies. Additionally, he did further research and studies at the Tyndale Theological Seminary, Criswell College and Louisiana Baptist University with emphasis in Christian Education and Pastoral Leadership. With his father’s guidance, the encouragement of his older sibling brother, Gregory Foster, and his courses of study, Anthony developed a solid and strategic foundation base in ministerial preparation, planning and leadership, all key elements to do greater Kingdom Building work for First Church. His studies allowed him the opportunity to pursue his purpose and passion with collaborative work as a Minister and the joy of music from the pulpit. In the pulpit, one can see and feel the power of his anointing with his music ministry gift when he turns from the pulpit podium, faces the choir and directs them as a part of the music worship service.