Charles Foster – Executive Director
Charles Foster’s journey from personal loss to founding Surviving From Loss is a powerful testament to his resilience and deep compassion. After the passing of his first wife, Cindy, Charles turned his grief into a mission, recognizing a need in his community for support tailored to widows and widowers. His decision to address this need reflects not only his empathy but also his unwavering commitment to helping others navigate the challenges of losing a spouse.
Charles has dedicated his talents and energy to providing a sense of community and purpose for those who have lost their spouses. His unique approach of using his photography skills to capture and share the stories of widows and widowers adds a deeply personal and meaningful dimension to his work, making a lasting impact on those he serves.
His commitment to the widowed community aligns with the principles found in I Timothy 5, which emphasizes the importance of caring for those in need. As our society ages and the needs of this demographic grow, organizations like Surviving From Loss become increasingly vital. Charles’s leadership and dedication are at the heart of this ministry’s success.
Recognizing the value of collaboration, Charles has built a strong board of directors who share his vision and selflessly contribute to the organization’s mission. His desire to lead others to Jesus through service is a testament to his faith and his commitment to the spiritual well-being of those he serves.
With decades of experience running a successful business, Charles brings valuable skills to effectively oversee and manage the ministry. His work with Surviving From Loss is a labor of love, driven by a genuine desire to offer hope, support, and the message of Jesus to grieving people.
May Surviving From Loss continue to touch the lives of widows and widowers, bringing comfort, purpose, and faith to those in need.
SASHA LOTZE – PRESIDENT
Sasha Lotze’s commitment to serving the widows and widowers in her community is evident from her background and personal experiences. Her involvement in various volunteer and leadership roles within her children’s school and the wider community highlights her dedication to making a positive impact.
Sasha’s transition to the role of an empty nester has allowed her to explore new ways to stay active and engaged with her community. Joining the Surviving From Loss Ministry board is a testament to her desire to continue serving and giving back.
Her extensive volunteer experience, including serving as Gala Chair, PTF board member, and President at Fort Bend Christian Academy, demonstrates her leadership skills and ability to effectively organize and lead initiatives. This background makes her a valuable asset to the ministry, where strong leadership is essential to supporting the needs of widows and widowers.
Sasha’s deep love for widows and widowers and her leadership capabilities make her an ideal fit for her role as President of the Surviving From Loss Ministry board. Her commitment to working alongside this group of Christian friends further emphasizes her dedication to serving the community and making a difference in the lives of grieving people.
Sasha’s involvement in the Surviving From Loss Ministry is driven by a genuine passion for helping others and a strong community spirit. Her contributions will surely be instrumental in fulfilling the ministry’s mission and providing much-needed support to those who have experienced loss.
Shannon Aaron – Vice-President
Shannon Aaron’s background and passions reflect a deep connection to nature, creativity, and a heartfelt commitment to serving others. Living near Brazos Bend State Park, Shannon’s love for nature and the outdoors is a vital part of her life. This connection to the natural world not only brings her peace but also serves as a source of solace and healing, which she brings to her work with Surviving From Loss. Her appreciation for nature can resonate deeply with those grieving, offering them a comforting reminder of the beauty and tranquility that can be found even in difficult times.
Shannon’s interests in good food, coffee, music, and art reveal a creative and vibrant personality. These passions can be powerful tools for bringing comfort and joy to those experiencing grief. Art, in particular, can serve as a therapeutic outlet for self-expression and healing, making Shannon’s involvement in the ministry especially meaningful.
Her God-given talents in planning, organizing, and decorating make her an invaluable asset to the ministry’s leadership team. These skills help create a supportive and welcoming environment where widows and widowers can find the comfort and community they need as they navigate their grief journey.
Shannon’s commitment to using her gifts to serve others and glorify God aligns perfectly with the mission of Surviving From Loss. Her dedication to loving and serving His people is evident in everything she does, and her contributions make a positive impact on the lives of those seeking support within the ministry.
With her unique blend of talents and compassionate spirit, Shannon plays a vital role in fulfilling the ministry’s mission, providing comfort, healing, and a sense of hope to those who have lost a spouse.
Pamelia Foster – Secretary
Pamelia Foster’s involvement in Surviving From Loss Ministry showcases her multifaceted roles as a family-oriented individual, business owner, musician, and dedicated Christian. Her deep love for her family, including being a mother and grandmother, reflects her strong appreciation for the importance of family bonds and relationships. This family-centered perspective allows her to provide empathy and valuable support to those who have lost their spouses and are navigating the challenges of grief.
As a full-time business owner in the health and wellness industry, Pamelia brings her professional expertise to the ministry, contributing to its successful operation and growth. Her commitment to holistic well-being aligns with the ministry’s mission of supporting the overall well-being of its members.
Pamelia’s passion for music, rooted in her background as a vocal music major and former music educator, shines through in her service on the worship team and as a vocal coach. Music can be a powerful source of spiritual and emotional support, and her contributions in this area add a beautiful dimension to the ministry.
Her compassionate heart for the ministry began when she and Charles were dating, and she learned about the history and struggles related to the loss of his first wife. This experience opened her eyes to the unique challenges faced by the widowed and sparked her commitment to serving this community.
As a co-founder and Secretary of the ministry, Pamelia’s leadership and organizational skills are vital to maintaining the ministry’s operations and ensuring it effectively meets the needs of widows and widowers. Her dedication to bringing her love for Jesus, her professional skills, and her compassionate spirit to the ministry is a testament to her faith and commitment to serving others.
Pamelia’s multifaceted background and her unwavering dedication make her an invaluable asset to Surviving From Loss as it continues to uplift and support those who have lost their spouses.
Tiffany Fetter – Director
Tiffany Fetter’s deep-rooted connection to Texas and her strong sense of family and community are invaluable assets as she embarks on her journey with Surviving From Loss Ministry. Her family, including her husband Rodney and her children, are at the heart of her life. Tiffany’s love for cooking and creating moments of togetherness around the dining table speaks to her nurturing and hospitable nature. This warmth and care are essential qualities that can provide comfort and support to those who are grieving the loss of a spouse.
Tiffany’s versatility is evident in her diverse experiences as a homeschooling mom, photographer, and ASL interpreter. These roles reflect her ability to connect with people in various ways, offering a unique perspective that enriches the ministry. Her volunteer work with Lifeline Chaplaincy further underscores her deep commitment to serving and connecting with others meaningfully.
Tiffany’s belief in the mission of Surviving From Loss Ministry and her dedication to using her gifts to glorify God are truly commendable. Her diverse skill set, combined with her passion for helping others, will undoubtedly enhance the ministry’s ability to provide comfort, support, and a sense of community to widows and widowers as they navigate their journey of healing and faith.
May Tiffany’s involvement in the ministry continue to be a blessing to both her and those she serves, as she brings love, compassion, and a nurturing spirit to those in need.
Bill Hendrix – Director/Widowers
Bill Hendrix’s unwavering faith and dedication to serving others are the cornerstones of his involvement with the Widowers Ministry. His passion for mission outreach and local church programs highlights his desire to make a positive impact, both locally and globally.
With a 22.5-year career that included two terms on the Board of Directors for a company, Bill brings a wealth of leadership and organizational experience to the ministry. His retirement at the end of 2020 has provided him with the opportunity to devote even more time to serving the Lord and His church, a calling he embraces wholeheartedly.
Bill’s long-standing service as a Communion Leader and his recent role at the Welcome Center within his church reflect his deep commitment to addressing the spiritual needs of his community. These roles have allowed him to connect with and support individuals at various stages of their faith journey, demonstrating his capacity for empathy and understanding.
His dedication to serving the widowed community, particularly through activities, lessons, and support, is a testament to his compassion and desire to help others navigate the profound challenges of grief. Recognizing the lasting impact of spousal loss, Bill’s willingness to address both recent and long-standing grief is an invaluable resource for those seeking solace and guidance.
Bill’s enthusiasm for the future of the ministry and his belief in its potential to serve brothers and sisters in Christ is truly inspiring. His previous Board of Directors experience will undoubtedly enhance the team’s ability to brainstorm ideas and plan future initiatives effectively, contributing to the ministry’s growth and success.
Bill Hendrix’s combination of faith, experience, and empathy makes him a vital asset to the Widowers Ministry. His commitment to serving the Lord, his church, and the widowed community will undoubtedly leave a lasting positive impact on those who seek support and healing within the ministry.
Joni Glover – Director-at-Large
Joni Glover’s life journey, from her roots in Mobile, Alabama, to her deep ties to Texas, reflects a resilient and compassionate spirit. Although she does not hold an accounting degree, her extensive experience in accounting roles, including accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and managing estates and trusts, showcases her strong organizational and financial skills. Her ability to keep her father’s land development business running after his passing is a testament to her perseverance and dedication.
Joni’s marriage to Bill in June 1968 and her experience as his caretaker for two decades, as he battled deep depression, diabetes, heart problems, Parkinson’s, and dementia, speaks volumes about her strength and commitment. Navigating the challenges of being a caretaker while working and maintaining her family’s well-being shaped her understanding of the struggles faced by others in similar situations.
Since Bill’s passing in December 2010, Joni’s heart for widows has driven her to create spaces of fellowship and encouragement within her home and beyond. Her leadership within Surviving From Loss Ministry, particularly as Steering Committee Chairman, underscores her dedication to helping others survive and thrive after loss.
Joni’s belief in the ministry’s mission and her commitment to supporting both widows and widowers are evident in her active role. Her personal experiences, combined with her leadership and organizational skills, make her a powerful advocate and an essential part of the ministry’s efforts to provide comfort, support, and hope to those navigating the journey of loss.
Kirby Fortenberry – Director-at-Large
Kirby Fortenberry’s journey as a widower, following the loss of his wife Pat after 54 years of marriage, brings a depth of personal experience and empathy to his role as Director-at-Large for Surviving From Loss Ministry. Since becoming a widower in December 2022, Kirby has engaged deeply with his grief through GriefShare programs at both the West Houston Church of Christ and the First Colony Church of Christ, as well as attending a Widowhood Workshop led by Dean Miller. His recent move to Cypress marks a new chapter in his life.
Kirby holds a Business Degree from the University of Houston (1968) and a Professional Project Manager Certificate. He dedicated 42 years to Shell Oil as an I.T. Project Manager, where he honed skills in project coordination, staff organization, and plan execution.
His long-standing involvement with the Sugar Grove Church of Christ, where he served as Deacon of Finance for over 30 years and participated in Consolidated Business and Elders meetings, highlights his commitment to community and organizational leadership.
In addition to his personal experience with widowhood, Kirby has actively participated in GriefShare twice, read extensively on surviving spousal loss, and engaged with the Surviving From Loss Stronger-Together Widowers Group. His combination of personal insight and professional expertise positions him as a valuable asset to the ministry, as he brings both compassion and organizational acumen to support others navigating their grief journey.
Kirby looks forward to contributing to the ministry and helping others through their own healing process with the same dedication and understanding he has applied to his own journey.
Judy Cooper – Director-at-Large
Judy Cooper brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate heart to her role as Director-at-Large for Surviving From Loss Ministry. As a widow of eight years who cared for her husband at home, Judy deeply understands the journey of grief and healing. She is a devoted mother to two adult Christian children and a proud grandmother to two beloved grandchildren.
Before relocating to Sugar Land from Mississippi 1.5 years ago, Judy had a distinguished career in education and public relations. She taught Journalism and Psychology at Freed-Hardeman College and served as the assistant public relations director. Her background in teaching and communication enriches her contributions to the ministry.
Judy’s involvement with the Surviving From Loss Ministry and GriefShare programs reflects her commitment to supporting others through their grief. She has also engaged in ladies’ Bible study and assisted with ladies’ day presentations, further demonstrating her dedication to spiritual and community outreach.
In her previous community in Mississippi, Judy was actively involved with the Oxford Church of Christ, where she taught VBS, coordinated small group activities, including nursing home visitation, and led a weekly ladies’ Bible study at the local jail. Her extensive volunteer work underscores her dedication to service and support.
As a member of the Surviving From Loss Steering Committee, Judy’s life experiences and educational background equip her to make meaningful contributions to the ministry’s Board of Directors. Her faith and commitment to helping others ensure that she will play a pivotal role in supporting and guiding those navigating their own paths of loss and healing.