Erma Lee Veasey Foster by Jerry Madison Harrison

TheReflections

life of Erma Lee Veasey Foster was marked by discipline, service, and devotion. She carried herself with a composed determination—guided by responsibility, a strong work ethic, and a lifelong commitment to education and community. Her influence endures in the many lives shaped by her example.

Born on July 13, 1942, in Hernando, Mississippi, to the late Archie and Florence Remell (Johnson) Veasey, Erma was one of nine children raised in a home where faith, hard work, and helping others were daily expectations. These early lessons became the foundation of her character and the compass for her life’s journey. On March 22, 2026, at Methodist University Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, she completed her earthly journey and entered eternal rest.

Erma accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized at Pleasant Hill Missionary Baptist Church, where her early faith was nurtured. For most of her adult life, she worshiped faithfully at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church, singing in the choir and later she united with her current church home. Her belief in Christ was a constant presence in her life.

She was united in holy matrimony to Melvin Foster, her steadfast companion for forty four years. Their marriage was a partnership built on love, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Their son, Robert Alexius, who preceded her in death in 2005, remained one of her greatest joys and the light of their home.

A dedicated educator, Erma devoted more than fifty years to shaping young minds. She earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Mississippi Industrial College in 1965, her master’s degree from the University of Memphis in 1981 and completed postgraduate studies in Administration and Supervision in 1983. Her integrity, reliability, and passion for teaching made her a respected and beloved figure whose lessons extended far beyond the classroom.

In 1992, she became the Owner and Director of Foster’s Childcare and Tutoring Center, creating a place where children were supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow. She built a tradition of excellence grounded in meaningful experiences and the development of critical thinking skills. Her students carried her influence with them, becoming living reflections of her life’s work.

Beyond her professional calling, Erma valued friendship, family, and meaningful experiences. She traveled widely, enjoyed the fellowship of bridge, and formed lasting connections with those around her. She was also active in her community, lending her time, insight, and steady presence to efforts that strengthened the lives of children and families. In her later years, she extended her support even more deeply to those closest to her, offering guidance, encouragement, and care. Her straightforward nature and dependable presence became defining parts of the legacy she leaves behind.

Erma was preceded in death by her husband, Melvin; her son, Robert Alexius; her parents; four of her brothers; and a host of other relatives. Cherishing her memory are her sisters Alberta Bryant of Oxford, Mississippi, Bettye Briggs of Memphis, Tennessee, and Linda Veasey of Cordova, Tennessee; her brother Archie Veasey (Shirley) of Memphis, Tennessee; along with a host of relatives, her special friend of more than 50 years, Mrs. Gwelyn Robinson, and many treasured friends. Her influence endures in the lessons she imparted, the people she loved, and the lives she touched.

Order of Service

Saturday, March 28, 2026 11:00 A.M.

Anointed Temple of Praise 3939 Riverdale Road • Memphis, Tennessee 38115 Dr. Thomas L. Murray, Senior Pastor

Processional...........................................................................................................Mr. Anthony Coleman “Praise Him”

Call to Worship......................................................................................................Dr. Thomas L. Murray

Musical Selection....................................................................................................Mr. Anthony Coleman “Stand”

Scripture Readings:

The Old Testament...........................................................................................Dr. Caroyln Butler

The New Testament.......................................................................................Dr. Qualice Seymour

Prayer..............................................................................................................................Dr. Kim Murray

Musical Selection...................................................................................Anointed Temple of Praise Team “Let The Church Say Amen”

Expressions/Tributes

(Three Minutes Please)

Friend.......................................................................................................................Mrs. Roleta Morgan

Neighbor.....................................................................................................................Mrs. Joyce Capers

Representative from Foster’s Childcare & Tutoring Center....................................Mrs. JoAnn Johnson

Family....................................................................................................................Dr. James McGlowan Mrs. Debra McGlowan Buford

Acknowledgements...................................................................................................Dr. Qualice Seymour

Words of Comfort............................................................................................................Dr. Kim Murray

Musical Selection.............................................................................................................Mrs. June Knox “Amazing Grace”

Eulogy....................................................................................................................Dr. Thomas L. Murray

Recessional................................................................................................................Ms. Brooke Lanfair “Take Me To The King”

Message from Erma to My Family

I Am Free….

Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free I’m following the path God laid for me. I took His hand when I heard Him call; I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone, must stay that way; I found peace at close of day.

If my parting has left a void Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss; Akh yes, these things I too shall miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life’s been full, I savored much; Good family, good times, a loved one’s touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your hearts and share with me; God wanted me now, He set me free.