Funeral arrangements have been announced for a local, longtime public servant. Former Cleveland Police Chief John Foster will be laid to rest on Wednesday, July 16. Foster died suddenly of a heart attack on Saturday, July 12. He was 70.
A U.S. Army veteran and respected lawman, Foster devoted more than two decades to the Cleveland Police Department, serving as chief for 17 years. He retired at the end of 2020, citing health issues. Before joining the Cleveland force in 1997, he worked in Habersham and Hart counties. He also taught criminal justice in Florida at St. Augustine Tech.
A life of service
Foster began his public service in 1974 when he enlisted in the Army. He was stationed in Italy before transferring to the National Guard Reserves. He left military service in 1981 and graduated from the police academy three years later.
Known for his steady leadership and sharp sense of humor, Foster was a skilled woodworker and a self-described “slinger of bull.” He married Fran Cook in 1996 and soon after, settled in Cleveland, where he remained deeply committed to his family, fellow officers, and the community.
“Chief Foster was a dedicated and lifelong public servant,” said current Police Chief Jeff Shoemaker. “His legacy lives on in the culture of professionalism and service he helped to instill in this department.”
Survivors include his wife, Fran; two children and their spouses; one grandchild; siblings; and extended family.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 16, at 12:30 p.m. at Barrett Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the same day. The chapel is located at 118 North Brooks Street in Cleveland. A livestream of the service will be available online.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the White County Honor Guard or the Charles Smithgall Humane Society.
