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Our First Birthday Without You

HELP US CELEBRATE FOSTER’S 62ND

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 2024

WE MISS YOU & LOVE YOU!

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The Legacy and life of

Cleo-Foster Lambert Joseph

A Harmonious Prelude: Early Years in Antigua

Cleo-Foster Lambert Joseph, the tenth and youngest child, was born on February 6, 1961, at Holberton Hospital in St. Johns, Antigua. He embarked on a journey shaped by the tender embrace of rich familial bonds. Surrounded by the warmth of his parents, Eric Manassah Joseph and Winifred Casilda Jackson-Joseph, Cleo-Foster’s early days in Liberta Village unfolded against the backdrop of a close-knit community.

As the last of ten children—five boys and five girls—Cleo-Foster’s childhood was steeped in the traditions and values of a large, loving family. His siblings, Dr. Llewellyn [deceased], Dr. Cuthbert, Ellen-Maude, Ithlane, Linetta “Miss Lynn,” ” Erickson “Max,” Clement “Clem, Iris, and Yvette “Junie” collectively shaped an environment of shared experiences, shared laughter and shared dreams.

Educational Crescendo: Scholarly Pursuits and Musical Notes

Cleo-Foster Lambert Joseph's educational path began at St. John’s Foundation Mixed School, shaping the trajectory of a life dedicated to learning. His progression to Antigua Grammar School signaled academic promise, foretelling the heights of intellectual exploration he would achieve. The crescendo of his educational journey played out at Holberton Hospital Pharmacy School, The University of the Southern Caribbean (formerly Caribbean Union College) in Trinidad, where his thirst for knowledge found an expansive canvas, and later Saint Leo University in St. Leo, Florida.

Alongside his academic pursuits, Cleo-Foster's life resonated with the love of music, a passion instilled by his mother's encouragement of piano lessons when she observed as a child, instead of playing with toys, he would beat on her pots and pans to the sound of music. He attended Dr. Hall-Pike School of Music in St. John’s Antigua and later mastered the skill of playing hymns under the tutelage of Ms. Lake in Falmouth.

This dual narrative of academic commitment and musical appreciation reached its peak as Cleo-Foster evolved into a proficient pianist. His educational journey was not just about earning degrees; it was a blend of intellectual growth and artistic expression. This harmonious intertwining of learning and music set the stage for a life that left a lasting impact on churches and communities.

Chords of Faith: Formative Years in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church

Immersed in the sacred tapestry of the Seventh Day Adventist church, Foster’s formative years unfolded as a harmonious blend of faith, dedication, and musical ministry. The New Bethel SDA Church in Liberta Village, Antigua, served as the backdrop for the inception of his spiritual journey. Recognized for his innate musical talents at the tender age of nine, Cleo-Foster was nominated as a church musician, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serving through music.

In these formative years, New Bethel became the crucible where Cleo-Foster's musical gifts blossomed, his fingers dancing across the keys, creating melodies infused with the essence of his vibrancy. Driven by a passion to instill a love for choral music among the youth, he founded the Advent Youth Chorale, a visionary step that not only ignited a tradition within the church but also resonated with a higher purpose. This chorale became a living testament to his belief in the transformative power of music, showcasing the ability of young voices to carry the spirit of devotion through song.

As Cleo-Foster's commitment extended beyond the harmonies, influencing every facet of church life, his leadership in these early years hinted at the profound impact he would later have on congregations across borders. Through the transformative power of music, he not only enriched worship experiences but also fostered a deep sense of unity and spiritual enrichment. Little did he know that fate would unfold within the sacred walls of The New Bethel SDA Church, leading him to encounter Vivnie James. Their story, rooted in childhood friendship and shared faith, would soon blossom into a love that transcended the sanctity of their church community.

Harmony of Hearts: Adult Life and Everlasting Love

As Cleo-Foster Lambert Joseph entered adulthood, he discovered enduring love and shared dreams with Vivnie James. Growing up in the same village and church, they chose Florida for the next chapter of their lives. Their bond deepened while they both pursued undergraduate degrees at St. Leo University, providing the foundation for the life they would build together.

Upon graduation the young couple headed north to New York City for new opportunities, and on August 16, 1992, Cleo-Foster married Vivnie, his childhood sweetheart, solidifying their partnership. Their marriage became a cornerstone, and their love story reached its pinnacle with the birth of their daughter, Eryka "Ree" Joseph—a testament to the continuation of their legacy. Cleo-Foster, took immense pride in Ree's accomplishments, sharing her achievements with friends and family as a testament to the love he had for her and in support of all she did.

Pharmaceutical Cadence: Career and Lifelong Connections

Registered by The University of the State of New York Education Department, his career unfolded as a testament to dedication and compassion, echoing through the corridors of Long-term Care Pharmacy Services (LTC) and various pharmacies across the dynamic landscape of New York. His professional journey was more than a career; it was a calling to serve and heal, an unwavering commitment to make a positive difference in the lives of those in need. Beyond the confines of pharmacy walls, Cleo-Foster seamlessly integrated his faith into healthcare, infusing every interaction with compassion and empathy.

In his later years, Cleo-Foster's career path led him to North Shore University Hospital for Northwell Health, where his expertise found new expression within the expansive realm of healthcare. The resonating impact of his pharmaceutical acumen extended to CVS Pharmacy (Wading River Location) and Mercy Center Ministries, creating a legacy of service that transcended traditional pharmacy roles. Yet, Cleo-Foster's narrative in the pharmaceutical world went beyond prescriptions and medical intricacies; it was about the genuine connections he cultivated. His enduring friendships with pharmacy owners Ray Bakchi (King’s Pharmacy) and Bhanu Gadde (Long Beach Chemists) went beyond professional ties, evolving into bonds that mirrored the warmth of family. His loyalty and reliability were the leading essence of his career and allowed him to foster enduring connections that enriched his life and those around him.

Soulful Serenades: Music, Ministry, and Community Impact

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Foster Joseph devoted himself to giving back to his Christian community through the transformative power of music. His contributions resonated through various churches and community groups across the Bronx, including Tremont Baptist Church, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, and St. Paul’s Episcopal Lutheran Church. His commitment to fostering musical talent reached new heights at St. Paul’s, where he secured a grant to provide music lessons to children in the Parkchester community. The funds were instrumental in acquiring steel pans, enabling local children to learn the music of his West Indian culture. Foster's musical journey extended to Beulah SDA Church in Canarsie, Brooklyn, NY, and Beulah SDA Church in Mount Vernon, NY, where he served as a musician during its early years as a mission. His role went beyond playing the piano; he orchestrated life-changing experiences for each church he served. From introducing praise team leaders for youth dances to bringing in choirs from other churches for special events, he utilized his daughter's musical talents and involved his wife in directing plays and musicals, as well as leading the youth choirs. Additionally, he collaborated in musical performances with the youth at Corona SDA Church, Queens, NY, alongside his wife Vivnie and her sister Dawn James-Williams (deceased).

Foster's dedication to his church community further manifested through his roles at Sharon SDA Church, where he served in various capacities. As the Education Secretary, he served as a tutor in community GED classes and took the youth on excursions to several sites around New York City, including Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum. High School graduates were taken on a limousine ride to a special location to celebrate their achievements. He played a crucial role as the church pianist during those early days of Sharon Church, and as an Assistant Adventist Youth Leader, orchestrated memorable experiences such as taking over 50 young people to Disney World in Orlando, Florida, and then transporting them to Fort Lauderdale to present a Gospel Concert at the Mt. Olivett SDA Church. To support youth initiatives, he actively participated in fundraising activities, including corn roasts, penny drives, and car washes. As a member of the Sharon Gospel Choir, he contributed to the group winning the McDonald’s Gospel Fest in the 90s.

Foster's final chapter as a musician and member of Gordon Heights SDA Church exemplified his enduring impact on the lives of many, be it through teaching music, showcasing his daughter's talent, or dedicating himself to youth ministry. His passion extended beyond the musical realm, as he seized every opportunity to witness to those he encountered about the Adventist message. Foster Joseph's legacy stands as a testament to a life lived in service to others, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who were touched by his musical and spiritual guidance.

A Final Cadence: Legacy and Eternal Await

On the eve of Christmas, Cleo-Foster Lambert Joseph concluded his earthly symphony, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those he cherished and inspired. His final cadence, a tender departure from this world, resonated with the transformative power of his love, dedication, and the harmonious interplay of music and faith. He will be greatly missed by his surviving wife, daughter, siblings, in-laws, colleagues, students, and friends.

The unexpected silence that followed his departure left a void, a space once filled with the harmonious notes of his laughter, the comforting cadence of his advice, and the rhythmic beat of his unwavering presence. Yet, within this silence, we find solace—a solace born from the enduring hope of a joyous reunion on the resurrection day, where melodies of eternal joy await to be shared once more.

As we reflect on his life, we remember that it is sometimes said that everyone has two deaths, when they are buried in the ground, and the last time someone says their name. We take comfort in the knowledge that his legacy will endure, and the melodies of his love will resonate through the hearts of generations yet to come as long as we continue to keep his legacy and name on our tongues.