Sandy Foster Jr.

With hearts tender from this profound loss, we gather to celebrate the life and home going of Sandy Foster, Jr., beloved gospel singer and long-time lead voice of the legendary Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi. Sandy was a devoted Christian who cherished the teachings of Jesus Christ. He attended New Christian Life Baptist Church of Cincinnati, Ohio and took solace in knowing the Lord. Sandy devoted his life to sharing the power of gospel music with audiences across the nation and around the world.

Sandy, affectionately known as “June,” was the backbone of his family. A devoted and admired big brother, he cared deeply for his parents and siblings. He was, without a doubt, a true family man. Sandy was known around the world as the legendary lead singer of the Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi. But at home, he was simply “June” — the protective big brother, Uncle June to a host of nieces and nephews, and Daddy to his many children who loved him dearly.

To his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he was Granddaddy, Grandpa Sandy and Paw-Paw — always full of love, wisdom, and humor. One of his favorite greetings was the affectionate question: “Who you look like?” And all of his children knew the only right answer: “YOU!”

Sandy Foster Jr. was born to Sandy Foster Sr. and Sybil, on August 28, 1945, in Miami, Florida. Birmingham, AL was the home for the Foster family, but his father, was stationed in the Navy when Sandy Jr. was born. “June” was the eldest of the Foster boys, followed by Charles and Nathaniel. In 1953, the family relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio where Curtis, the baby of the family, was born, 6 years later. Sandy Jr. was the oldest—and he never let his younger brothers forget it. He saw himself as the boss  and made sure everyone else did too. He always referred to himself by his full name: Sandy Foster, Jr. A natural leader,  Sandy had a strong desire to be in control. From a young age, Sandy dreamed of becoming a star. He didn’t know how it would happen, but he was certain that one day, the spotlight would be his. Sandy attended Taft High School, where he was well-known and well-liked. Everyone at school called him Jack Frost. He ran track, sang in the choir, and was especially proud to be a member of the Taft High School football team. He began  cultivating his singing talent early on, performing at the 1964 Taft Capades, a major citywide talent show. Sandy was one of the standout stars of the event. He graduated from Taft High School in 1964. After graduating, Sandy began working at General Motors as a welder. He quickly earned a reputation as one of the best on the job. His coworkers loved him and affectionately called him “Sam.” Sandy came by his love for music by his father, Sandy Foster, Sr., who was a well-known promoter in the city of Cincinnati, bringing quartet-style gospel groups into town for performances.

Following in his father’s musical footsteps, Sandy Jr. sang with several gospel groups, including his father’s group, The Golden Eagles, as well as The Holy City Travelers.

It was during his time with The Holy City Travelers that Sandy’s opportunity came. While performing, he caught the attention of The Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi. Impressed by his talent, they invited him to join them on the road. They sent him a plane ticket—and the rest was history.

In 1971, Sandy left General Motors to become the lead singer of The Original Five Blind Boys of Mississippi, stepping fully into the star role he always believed was his destiny. Sandy became both featured lead singer and spokesman, carrying forward the ensemble’s rich tradition of soul-stirring quartet style gospel. Under his leadership and voice, The Five Blind Boys of Mississippi achieved national recognition, earning two GRAMMY award nominations in the 1970s and continuing to inspire generations of gospel artists. Their music, including songs such as “My Desire” and “I’m Just Another Soldier,” remains a testament to their enduring spiritual impact. Beyond the Grammys, the group was honored with a Gospel Music Workshop of America Pioneering Award in 2013, received recognition through the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, and were celebrated in press and gospel history sources as inductees into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2013, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 1998, and the Ebony Award. In addition to National honors Sandy Foster, Jr. was the recipient of numerous local and community awards, reflecting the deep love and respect he earned all over the world. Proclamations, church honors, and community tributes recognized Sandy not only as a gifted musician but also as a cultural treasure. He received a Proclamation from the City of Cincinnati, for his achievement in the gospel music industry in 2024, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award. Sandy Foster Jr. leaves behind a lasting musical legacy-one that lifted spirits, strengthened faith, and ensured that the voice of gospel quartet style music will continue to echo for generations to come.

Sandy Foster Jr. began working for the Formica Corporation in 1986. While employed there, he continued to tour as the lead singer of the blind boys, balancing both careers until his retirement in 2012. Even after retiring, Sandy remained active in music, continuing to tour with the Five Blind Boys of Mississippi until his health began to decline.

Sandy is preceded in death by his parents, Sandy Foster Sr. and Sybil Foster, and his brother, Nathaniel Foster. He is survived by his siblings: Charles Foster, Michael Floyd (Charlene), Curtis Foster Sr., Anita Chapman Strong (Spencer), and Angela Stallworth (Senue P. Chapman, Jr.).

Sandy Foster Jr. was a proud father of many children, who dearly miss him and the life lessons he imparted to them. He leaves behind: Terry Branch, Leonard Foster, De Andrea Foster-Smith, Kyria Graves, Kara Lynn Graves, Kenda Smith (Lonnie), LaKiska Foster-Reeves (Steve), Brena Williams, Angela King, Rocky Foster, Tanisha Walker (Tyrone), Sybil Foster, Darrell Gordon, Tremell Foster (Erica), Ronnell Beech (Naquisha), Sandy Foster III, and Esperanza Solano. He took great pride in being a parent and was proud to see the accomplishments of his children. He is also survived by his many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a whole host of loving nieces, nephews and cousins.

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