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William "Billy" Foster, of the band Billy and the Showmen, died in the town of Fairfield around 12:10 a.m., Friday, Jan. 26 just before Exit 22.
According to Connecticut State Police, a preliminary investigation revealed a tractor-trailer and two cars were traveling on I-95 northbound when the second vehicle identified as a 2018 Chevy Impala, driven by Williams, for an unknown reason spun out, entered the median and collided with the concrete jersey barrier.
Since his passing, Foster has been remembered by bandmates, friends, and people who loved to hear him sing online.
Forever Sweet Bakery of Norwalk, co-owner Sky Mercede wrote that he sent a direct message to Foster's Facebook page after hearing of his death.
"Billy, it’s SKY I cannot believe what happened. I just wanted you to know it was a pleasure meeting you many years ago at The Black Duck “Wendy May Jam” Thank You for your Music and most of all your friendship❗️❤️ We will all miss you and we all Love You❗️🙏❤️🙏🎼SKY MAN🧁"
Mercede said Foster was a Vietnam veteran and had been with the band that formed 55 years ago for years.
Others online had similar memories of his "smooth voice" and always friendly demeanor.
Bandmate Bill Losier had this to say: "I joined the band in the mid-90s. Billy’s voice was pure joy. Pure soul. When the band played, I couldn’t stand still. It was synergetic. And Fos had a sense of humor to match. And man, could he tell a story! When you’re in a band that long, you become family. Brothers. We lost a brother last night. I will miss him."
Audrey Demarinis a fan and friend said she was "very heartbroken over the loss of this musical giant.
"RIP Billy, your music will live on forever. God bless you, my friend. 🙏🏻 I'll miss your silly videos and comments. Love you."
According to his obituary, Foster was an exceptional vocalist, well-known in the tristate area, and beloved by the music community in Fairfield County.
Fronting many bands over the course of six decades – most notably: Billy and the Showmen. His rich baritone and vocal phrasing created an emotional impact that could take your breath away, his obituary said.
"With wit, charm, and that voice, his stage presence was something that will not soon be forgotten," the obituary said.
He is survived by his wife Irene, children Billie and Stephan, grandchildren Jade, Jayla, Justin, and Jordan, siblings Sheila K. Robinson and Preston Foster, and a host of beloved nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at Coxe & Graziano Funeral Home, 134 Hamilton Avenue, Greenwich, with visiting hours on Wednesday, Jan. 31, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Thursday, Feb. 1, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and services at 11 a.m. Interment will follow at Greenwood Union Cemetery, 215 North Street in Rye.
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