Hollis Foster Jr. Obituary And Death Cause: Remembering the Heroic and Beloved Chief of Police of Holly Grove
Hollis Foster Jr., the chief of police of Holly Grove, Arkansas, passed away on December 21, 2023, at the age of 58. He was a respected and admired leader, who dedicated his life to serving and protecting his community. He was also a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, who many will greatly miss.
Who was Hollis Foster Jr.?
Hollis Foster Jr. was born on June 15, 1965, in Holly Grove, Arkansas. He grew up in a small town, where he developed a strong sense of duty and justice. He joined the Holly Grove Police Department in 1987 and rose through the ranks to become the chief of police in 2010. He was known for his professionalism, integrity, and compassion, as well as his bravery and heroism.
One of the most notable incidents in his career was on October 4, 2013, when he responded to a call for assistance from other officers. While gathered with several Arkansas State Troopers, Monroe County Deputies, and other officers from Holly Grove, an assailant armed with a 12-gauge shotgun fired at the group of officers from approximately 75 feet away. Numerous pellets hit Chief Foster in his ABA® Xtreme® HP level II armor and the shoulder.
All pellets that hit him in the armor were stopped, but Chief Foster received a grazing wound and several other pellets lodged in his shoulder. According to the Arkansas State Police officer who took over the case, his ABA armor saved his life. The shooter was taken into custody shortly thereafter and is facing multiple felony counts. Chief Foster recovered from his injuries and returned to full duty as soon as his doctors cleared him for active duty.
Chief Foster was also instrumental in improving the safety and security of Holly Grove, by implementing various initiatives and programs, such as community policing, crime prevention, and youth mentoring. He was always willing to lend a hand, offer advice, or share a smile with anyone who needed it. He was a role model and a mentor for many young officers, who looked up to him for guidance and inspiration.
A Family Man and a Friend
Chief Foster was not only a dedicated officer, but also a devoted family man and a loyal friend. Hollis Foster Jr. was married to Era Mae Hicks Foster, who preceded him in death in 2023. They had two children, Hollis Foster III and Tamikia Nicole Williams, and four grandchildren. He also had two stepchildren, Felita Renee Reed and Laura Marchell Starr-Phillips, from his wife’s previous marriage. He loved his family dearly and enjoyed spending time with them, especially during holidays and special occasions.
Chief Foster was also a man of faith, who was baptized and joined Pine City Baptist Church at an early age. He later became a faithful member of the Church of the Living God Pillar and Ground of the Truth, where he was an ordained Eldress. He was a humble and generous servant of God, who always sought to do His will and spread His love.
Chief Foster had many friends and colleagues, who appreciated his kindness, humor, and wisdom. He was always ready to help, support, or comfort anyone who needed it. He was a fun-loving and cheerful person, who enjoyed fishing, sewing, and reading. He had a positive outlook on life and a grateful attitude for everything he had.
A Legacy of Honor and Love
Hollis Foster Jr’s death was a shock and a loss for the entire Holly Grove community, as well as for the law enforcement fraternity. He was honored and remembered by many, who expressed their condolences and tributes on social media and other platforms.
Chief Foster’s funeral service was held on December 28, 2023, at the Church of the Living God Pillar and Ground of the Truth, with Bishop Michael Jenkins and Pastor Mary Jenkins officiating. He was laid to rest at the Holly Grove Cemetery, with full honors and a 21-gun salute. He was survived by his children, grandchildren, stepchildren, brother, and many other relatives and friends.
Chief Foster’s life and legacy will not be forgotten but will continue to inspire and motivate future generations. He was a true hero, a faithful servant, and a beloved chief, who left a lasting impact on everyone he met. He was a shining example of what it means to serve and protect, to love and care, and to live and die with honor and dignity. He was Hollis Foster Jr., the chief of police of Holly Grove, Arkansas.
