Mr.  E. L. Foster, 82, of Ocala, passed away on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at Sylvia’s Hospice House.  Born in Sturgis, Miss., Mr. Foster was raised in Charleston, SC.  He was awarded a scholarship to play football for the University of South Carolina, and was an avid supporter of his beloved Gamecocks for his entire life.  While a student as USC he met his future wife, Josephine Aylward from Ocala.  They returned to Ocala in 1968 where together they owned and operated the Holiday Inn in Silver Springs.  E.L., as he was known to all, was very involved in his adopted city of Ocala.  He served several terms as Ocala’s Mayor, and was involved with numerous local organizations, including the Silver Springs Rotary Club, and the Ocala Elk’s Lodge, where he served as Exalted Ruler.  He was a longtime member of Grace Episcopal Church.

   His survivors include his wife of 59 years, Josephine Foster, his daughter Lynn Foster, daughter-in-law Pam Foster, brother-in-law Robert Aylward, grandchildren Taylor Trenary, Randi Dugas, Mardi Carter, and Logan Yandle, and 8 great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his son Les Foster and his sister Ruth Berlinsky.

   Funeral Services for Mr. Foster will be held at 2 PM Monday, October 24, at Christ the King Anglican Church, 3801 N. US Highway 441, Ocala, with The Rev. Donald J. Curran, Jr. officiating.  Arrangements are being handled by Roberts Funeral Home of Dunnellon.

   At the family’s request, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of your choice.

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