Ex-NFL player and college football star who became deputy sheriff in Texas dies suddenly at age 59

Melvin Foster, a former NFL player for the Dallas Cowboys, has died unexpectedly at the age of 59. 

He played football at both collegiate and NFL level before dedicating his life to public service, becoming a deputy sheriff in Harris County, Texas. 

Foster, who was described as ‘a giving man with a big heart’ in an obituary, passed away suddenly on Saturday. No cause of death has yet been announced. 

The former linebacker began his football career at high school, winning the 1985 state championship with Yates High School. 

He went on to play college football for Iowa, making an appearance in the Rose Bowl in 1991 and winning the Big Ten Championship in the same year. 

During his time as an Iowa Hawkeye, Foster earned USA Today All-American and All-State honors. 

He was a member of the Dallas Cowboys’ roster in 1992 before he hung up his cleats to turn to public service. 

Foster served in the Harris County Sheriff’s Office for 15 years, eventually becoming deputy sheriff. 

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez shared a touching tribute to Foster following his death, describing him as ‘an incredible man and public servant.’

‘We’re saddened by the recent and unexpected passing of our teammate @HCSOTexas Deputy Melvin Foster,’ Gonzalez wrote on X. 

‘Melvin was an incredible man and public servant. He leaves behind a strong legacy. He served Harris County for almost 15 years.

‘[…] He was an impactful leader and was beloved by his teammates. We extend our deepest condolences to his family. Melvin will be missed and never forgotten.’

Foster’s obituary also remembered him as a cherished member of the community, saying that his ‘legacy continues on in the lives he touched.’

It read: ‘Melvin was also a devoted Christian father who cherished his children, grandchildren, and extended family. He loved baking and barbecuing, filling his home with warmth and delicious food. The best part was he always shared his creations with everyone around him — he was a giving man with a big heart.

‘Melvin proudly served as a Harris County Deputy Sheriffs Officer and Field Training Officer for 15 years, earning the respect of his colleagues for his professionalism and motivation. His dedication to public service left a lasting impact on the community and the deputies he trained. His absence will undoubtedly be felt throughout his district.’

A native Houstonian, Foster’s football legacy was honored by induction into the 2021 inaugural class of the Houston ISD Hall of Honors.