Ted Eugene Foster, Jr. passed away on August 2, 2009 when he was 20 years old. He was killed in a tragic accident while at work. Even in death, his giving spirit is carried on by being an organ donor. His gift of life saved six lives including a 4 year old little boy.

When I was told that my son had “suffered a catastrophic injury” and was brain dead, my world fell apart. But knowing my son, I could just hear him say “Hey Mom, I can’t take it with me… I’m getting a new heavenly body.” That made the decision easier to donate his organs. I miss him each and every day with every fiber of my being, but I have a new adopted family through organ donation that loves me with every fiber of their being.

Ted was born and raised in Dallas, Texas and was going to be a junior at Oklahoma State University when he passed unexpectedly. Ted was an expressive, optimistic, and uninhibited individual who loved life and people. To everyone around him, he seemed to be eternally happy, and he willingly shared that joy with anyone whose life he touched

Ted was a real “people person”. His enthusiasm and energy was often contagious. In college, Ted joined the Rodeo Club and was active at Turning Point Riding Ranch which is a therapeutic horse riding facility for special needs children. A generous person who often wore his heart on his sleeve, Ted often found himself involved in activities he felt was important. He was charitable, kind and giving, qualities that made him a natural volunteer.

Ted’s faith was important to him throughout his life. He was a member of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. He was active in the Student Ministry and he carried the story of Christ to others on various mission trips that took him across the states as well as abroad. In his day to day life, when others would come to him with problems or concerns, he always turned them to the Cross and reminded them that God had a plan for everyone. God’s plan was the perfect plan and Ted knew that God would “never leave you, nor forsake you.” He said many times,“I’m always here for you and so is God.”

Ted left this life with no regrets. He had made peace with all whom accepted it. He lived by taking the high road and did so until he went to his eternal home with his Lord and Savior. Ted Eugene Foster Jr. lived life to its fullest and made everyone around him happier, just for knowing him. He will be remembered with a smile. My Punkin – we love you forever and always – Mom, Fred, John and Chris.