Honoring a Visionary: Mural Unveiling Celebrates the Life and Legacy of Clyde L. Foust Sr.

The George Washington Carver Community Enrichment Center is proud to announce the unveiling of a vibrant new mural honoring the life and legacy of a beloved community leader, Clyde L. Foust Sr. Created by Emilio Marz—visual arts instructor for the Carver Arts Academy’s after-school program—this mural is more than just art. It is a tribute to a man whose faith, vision, and dedication transformed lives across Asheboro and beyond.

Clyde L. Foust Sr. spent his formative years on the family farm, attending Central School and Mitchell United Methodist Church. After graduating from Central High School, he immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he was trained as a heavy equipment mechanic. He served across the United States and in Thule, Greenland, attending college courses and working at every station along the way.

Clyde Foust was the first African-American to own a business in downtown Asheboro.

In 1964, Clyde returned home to Asheboro and founded Foust Photo. His return also rekindled a romance with Betty Foxx, and the two were united in marriage on December 15, 1965. Together, they raised four children—Benita, Tonya, Tammy, and Clyde Jr. (“Chip”)—and built a family legacy of entrepreneurship and service. The couple grew their business into Foust Photo & Music, and later established Foust Rental Properties, Foust Enterprise, and Consolidated Maintenance and Repair.

Clyde’s commitment to his community extended well beyond business. He served on numerous boards, including the Asheboro City Board of Education, Mount Shepard Retreat Center, Regional Consolidated Services, Randolph Medical Services, and leadership roles within the Western North Carolina United Methodist Conference. A graduate of Shaw University, he also earned Small Minority Business Certifications from Dartmouth College’s Tuck School of Business, Eastman Kodak, and Polaroid Corporation.

In 1984, Clyde earned his funeral director’s license and became the manager of Gailes Funeral Home, Inc., continuing his lifelong journey of service. His many accolades included receiving the North Carolina Minority Supplier Business Development Award three times. He was a sought-after mentor and a beacon of wisdom for up-and-coming entrepreneurs.

At Mitchell United Methodist Church, where he served as Chairman of the Trustee Board, Clyde was instrumental in building the new chapel and fellowship hall. His generosity, leadership, and commitment to service reflected his favorite hymn: “To Be Like Jesus.” He lived that mission each day—feeding the hungry, visiting the sick, and welcoming the stranger.

Perhaps his most lasting contribution came in 1992 when he assumed leadership of the George Washington Carver Community Enrichment Center. As president, Clyde worked tirelessly to continue the dream of Dr. C.A. Barrett, ensuring that the Center remained a beacon of hope and pride for the Eastside and the greater Asheboro community.

The mural that now bears his image is not only a beautiful artistic expression—it is a lasting symbol of a life lived in service to others. Join us in celebration as we unveil this powerful tribute to Clyde L. Foust Sr.—a man whose light continues to shine through every corner of the community he helped build.

Unveiling Ceremony Details:
Date: August 8th, 2025
Time: 6:00PM
Location: George Washington Carver Community Enrichment Center, 950 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Asheboro, NC

Come celebrate legacy, creativity, and community with us.

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George Washington Carver Community Enrichment Center
950 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Asheboro, NC 27203