Betty Foster

April 20, 1930 - January 17, 2022

    Betty died January 17, 2022. She was 91 years old. Born in Chicago to Eva and Leo Solomon on April 20,1930, Betty graduated from Secretarial College and worked for seven years as the executive Secretary for the Chief Chemist of the Visking Corporation. Betty is survived by her devoted husband of 71 years, Mr. Joyce "Jay" Foster; two daughters, Dr. Sharon Foster Gardepe (James) of Huntsville, AL and Dr. Carol Lynn Foster (Bob Drinkwater) of Amherst, MA; and two grandchildren, Cullen Gardepe and Brendan Drinkwater.

Betty's roles as wife, homemaker, mother, and grandmother were the first priorities of her life. Later, Betty became an accomplished artist (painter), art teacher, and businesswoman, establishing a busy art studio and school. Altogether, Betty taught art for nearly 30 years. Her artworks were presented in shows across North Alabama; her paintings can be found in homes, businesses, and private collections throughout the region. 

After retiring, she and her husband Jay went on numerous cruises and sampled much of the world. They also enjoyed annual stays in Maui, Hawaii for the past 24 years. Betty was known to her friends and family as a remarkably upbeat and positive person. Spending time with her always left others feeling better, unless they found themselves opposing her in a game of dominoes or bridge. 

The couple decided not to have a funeral service, but plan a celebration of life at a date to be named. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Russel Hill Cancer Foundation, or to a charity of one's choice.