There are teachers who teach subjects and teachers who teach you how to be. Eleanor Foster was the second kind.
2 years ago
Eleanor Margaret Foster
April 15, 1932 – November 2, 2023 · 91 years
"She carried light wherever she walked."
Biography
Eleanor Margaret Foster was born in Charleston, South Carolina, the youngest of five siblings. A devoted schoolteacher for over 35 years, she shaped the minds and hearts of hundreds of children across two generations. She loved jazz, gardening, and Sunday dinners that lasted all afternoon. Eleanor is survived by her three children, seven grandchildren, and a community that will never forget her laugh.
Messages & Tributes (15)
+ Write a MessageMrs. Foster stayed after school with me every Tuesday for a semester when I was struggling to read. Because of her patience, I went on to get a PhD in literature. I owe her everything.
2 years ago
Mrs. Foster was my third-grade teacher and I still think of her every time I open a book. She made me believe I could write. I carry that with me every single day.
2 years ago
Grandma, I am going to tell my own children about you every single day until they feel like they knew you. And maybe they will.
2 years ago
I babysat Eleanor's grandchildren for three summers. She always had lemonade ready, always asked about my plans, and always made me feel capable of achieving them. A rare soul.
2 years ago
Dad always said mom was the strong one, the smart one, the one who kept everything together. He was right. We love you, Mom.
2 years ago
My grandmother spoke of Eleanor Foster with such tenderness. They were friends for 50 years. Thank you for being a constant in her life.
2 years ago
She read to us every Friday afternoon — not from the curriculum, just books she loved. I didn't know it then, but those were some of the best hours of my childhood.
2 years ago
Eleanor was the kind of woman who remembered everyone's birthday, who called just to check in, who showed up. We should all aspire to love the way she did.
2 years ago
My sister lived every day to the fullest and left this world better than she found it. That's all any of us can hope for. Love you, Ellie.
2 years ago