Obituary of Robert Leroy Foster

Petty Officer 3^rd Class Robert Leroy Foster, Jr. (affectionately known as “Mookie”) was born on March 23, 1960 at DC General Hospital in Washington, D.C., and was deployed to heaven on Tuesday November 23, 2021.  He was 61 years old.  Robert was the son of Robert Foster, Sr. and Dorothy Robinson, and had six siblings.  He was a focused, determined, sensitive, intelligent, and God-fearing man who loved his family, friends, cooking, learning, and the US Navy. 

Robert graduated from Spingarn High School in Washington, D.C. in 1978.  Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the US Navy at the young age of 18 years old.  As a young man, Robert traveled the world by sea, exploring several continents, including but not limited to, Asia and South America.  He often spoke of the Philippines being his favorite country that he explored.  He would often reflect on how stunning and serene the ocean was in the Philippines.  While serving in the US Navy, Robert was awarded several honors and medals, such as the Navy Expeditionary Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon; to name a few.  Additionally, while serving in the US Navy, Robert began competitively boxing and weightlifting on and off ships around the world. 

After his service term, Robert began a career as a Master Electrician.  As an Electrician he collaborated with building engineers to create many buildings, landmarks, and offices around the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia metro area.  Due to his love of electrical work, Robert taught other young men in the community and within his family the trade.  As a second career, Robert worked as a cross-country truck driver, driving to nearly 45 states during his tenure.  After spending over 40 years working for the country, during his retirement, Robert expressed his artistic-side by hand-making ceramics in West Virginia, where many of his artwork won 1^st place prizes. 

Out of all of his many accomplishments, Robert was most proud of his family.  He leaves behind to carry his spirit: his wife Erma Hawkins, his children Robert Hawkins, Rasheda Foster Shaw, Chloe’ Hawkins, Tejuana Foster, and NaTonya Foster.  His grandchildren, Jayvia and Tarik, his son-in-law Neville Shaw, his sisters Tonya Smith, Tracey Foster, and Robin Foster, and a host of cousins, family, and friends.