Berchindle "Big Chin" John Foster, Sr.

Obituary For Berchindle "Big Chin" John Foster, Sr.

Berchindle John Foster Sr., affectionately known to many as Big Chin, was born on February 15, 1965, to Berer M. Shelton and the late Joe P. Foster. He was lovingly raised by his father, the late Henry W. Shelton. On August 31, 2026, responded to the summons into eternity surrounded by the embrace of his family.

Berchindle was a proud 1983 graduate of East High School, where he distinguished himself as an All-City Linebacker during the 1982–1983 season. His love of football remained a meaningful part of his life. He was a devoted Chicago Bears fan and enjoyed sharing his passion for the game with his family, friends, and the many young people he mentored.

For 25 years, Berchindle dedicated himself to his work with Commercial Shearing/Intertech, Parker Hannifin. He was dependable and hardworking, taking pride in his career and in the relationships, he built throughout his years of employment.

In 2022, Berchindle continued to pursue personal growth and earned an associate degree from Eastern Gateway Community College. This accomplishment reflected his determination, perseverance, and belief that it is never too late to learn, grow, and reach a new goal.

Berchindle had a genuine love for young people and a deep commitment to his community. He served as a Little League coach for the Disciples and Saints and later founded the Ohio Valley Crusaders. Through coaching, he encouraged, taught, guided, and inspired countless young people. To many, he was more than a coach, he was a mentor, a role model, and someone who believed in their potential.

Berchindle was also a man of faith. He was a faithful member of Gospel Temple Baptist Church for 25 years and also attended Union Baptist Church. His faith was reflected in the way he cared for others, served his community, and remained present for the people he loved.

Berchindle was a warm-hearted, strong-minded, and tenacious man who was never afraid to be true to himself. He loved deeply, cared sincerely, and was never hesitant to share his thoughts, wisdom, or advice. With Berchindle, you always knew where you stood—and you always knew that his words came from a place of honesty and concern.

He had a special gift for connecting with young people. He knew how to speak with them, listen to them, encourage them, and make them feel valued. Inclusiveness was his passion from a young age, and he carried that spirit throughout his life. He believed that everyone deserved to feel welcomed, respected, and included.

Berchindle was a true socialite who cherished friendship and never forgot the people who became part of his life. He maintained friendships that were reached from grade school through adulthood. He was known throughout his community for his memorable personality, generous spirit, and the genuine way he made people feel seen and appreciated.

Berchindle was also exceptionally generous. He was the kind of person who would sacrifice his own comfort and go without so that someone else could have what they needed. His loyalty was unwavering, and his love was demonstrated through his actions. When Berchindle called you a friend, he meant it wholeheartedly.

Above all, Berchindle loved his family. He leaves to cherish his memory his mother Berer, his beloved wife of 28 years, Katrina Foster; son, Berchindle John Foster Jr.; and his cherished grandson, Berchindle John Foster III, “3 Peat Champ.”

He is also survived by his sisters, Anjomeda Foster-Taylor, Dorresa I. Brown (Kevin), and Vernita Bradford (Ronnie Bradford); and his brother, Cametrius Shelton. He was preceded in death by his late sister-in-law, Sabrina Shelton, the wife of his brother Cametrius Shelton. Big Chin also leaves behind twelve nieces and three nephews, extended family, longtime friends, former teammates, players, and countless members of the community whose lives he touched.

Berchindle’s life was a testament to love, loyalty, family, friendship, football, faith, perseverance, and community. He gave generously of himself and left an enduring impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His influence will continue through the family he loved, the young people he coached, the friendships he treasured, and the community he served.

In reflection of Berchindle’s life, the Foster family invite all who knew and loved him to join them as his life is honored. There will be a 10:00 AM public viewing on Wednesday September 9, 2026, at Elizabeth Baptist Church, 1210 Himrod Ave. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:00 AM with Rev. Derrick H. Anderson as the celebrant. After the committal ceremony, Big Chin will be laid to rest upon the palatial landscaping of the Tod Homestead Cemetery, at 2200 Belmont Ave, Youngstown, OH

Though his voice has been silenced and his physical presence is no longer with us, his spirit will remain. His lessons, laughter, determination, honesty, generosity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest peacefully, Coach Chin. You were loved deeply, respected greatly, and will be missed beyond words. Your legacy will live on forever.

For a caring farewell, at this time of intimate need and personal loss, the Berchindle “Big Chin” John Foster Sr. family elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave, Youngstown, OH 44511 330.782.8500

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