Ira L. "Sonny" Foster

Ira L. "Sonny" Foster, age 72, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children Saturday evening, December 23, 2017, at Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, MS. after a lengthy illness.

Funeral services will be 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, December 26, 2017 at Calvary Baptist Church with interment to follow in Hebron Cemetery near Sardis, MS. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday prior to the service at Calvary Baptist Church. Wells Funeral Home of Batesville, MS is in charge of arrangements.

Sonny was a life long resident of Sardis, a devoted and loving husband of four-five years, a father and grandfather. Besides being a loyal fan of the South Panola Tigers and the Ole Miss Rebels, he was an avid sportsman, as well as, a beloved member of his community.

Sonny was born January 27, 1945 in Sardis, MS to the late Robert and Edna Scallorn Foster. He attended Sardis High School and was one of six children. Sonny loved God, his country and his family. He was passionate about his friends,  hunting, and his beloved pets. Sonny was full of life and will be truly missed by all who knew him.

Never one to remain still, after retirement he was constantly looking for odd jobs. When not working, Sonny would help solve county and world problems over a cup of coffee with his friends at the "round table".

The one heartbreaking loss of his son, Donnie, couldn't keep him from living life knowing the day would come when they would be together again. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the many skilled and compassionate doctors, nurses, and caregivers who crossed paths with Sonny through the years, especially during these last few months; as well to his many dear friends and hunting buddies. Special thanks to Camilla Hospice and to Sonny's special nurse, Brandy, whom lovingly call him the "silver fox" for his lovely white hair.

Sonny met and married the love of his life, Mary Jo, and the two became one. He lived life, laughed often, and loved much. He leaves a legacy of love, pride and pleasure that our grateful hearts will forever treasure.

Sonny is survived by his loving wife, Mary Jo Foster of Sardis, MS; four daughters, Cassie Foster Arnold (Jay) of Batesville, MS, Vicki Foster Turnage (Baine) of Water Valley, MS, Tonya Foster Jones (Jeff) of Oxford, MS, Kim Foster Beloate (Frank) of Batesville, MS; sister, Lorene Foster Hudson of Sardis, MS; brother, Hugh Foster of Hernando, MS; seven grandchildren, Meri Morgan Fortune, Brayden Locke, Brinley Locke, Sam Jones, Emma Jones, Molly Jones, Parker Turnage; and host of step-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, the family request that memorial gifts be made to the Calvary Baptist Church Building Fund, 305 Keating Rd, Batesville, MS  38606.