Delores Foster

Delores Lorraine (Barnes) Foster, born on March 1, 1935, in Austin, Indiana, graced this world with her presence for nearly nine decades, leaving behind an indelible legacy of love, faith, and devotion. She departed from this life on November 30, 2024, surrounded by her loving family, a testament to the warmth and closeness she fostered throughout her life.

A proud 1953 graduate of Austin High School, Delores carried the values of her rural upbringing into her adult life, embracing her role as a wonderful homemaker with grace and enthusiasm. Her heart was steadfastly planted in her family, pouring herself into each member with a selfless dedication that was both profound and inspiring. A Christian lady at her core, she loved the Lord deeply, and this faith guided her every action, whether she was singing in the choir at the First United Methodist Church of Seymour, where she was a beloved member for over 70 years, or teaching Sunday School with unwavering passion. Delores also took pride in her community service, contributing her time and efforts to Meals on Wheels and serving as a past treasurer for the Seymour Clothing Center.

The essence of Delores was encapsulated in her servant's heart; she often put the needs of others ahead of her own, making personal sacrifices with a smile. Her culinary talents were legendary within her family, where her famous dressing at Thanksgiving, delightful chicken pot pie, comforting bread pudding, and sweet cinnamon coffee cake became cherished traditions. These are just a few of the flavors that will linger in the hearts of those who gathered around her table.

She had a vibrant spirit that shone through her interests and hobbies. Whether she was shopping for the latest fashions, playing cards or exploring flea markets for hidden treasures, or cheering on her favorite sports teams—especially Michigan State Men’s Basketball and Caitlyn Clark—Delores embraced life with an infectious enthusiasm.

Her legacy lives on through her devoted family members: her sons, Michael Foster and his wife Cindy of Greenwood, Indiana; Eric Foster and his wife Mary Kay of Martinsville, Indiana; Steven Foster and his wife Charity of Southport, Indiana; her daughter Linda Oakes and her husband Ervin of Crothersville, Indiana; and her sister Anita Rayner of Crothersville, Indiana. Delores was also a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Whitney Fox (Tim), Corey Foster (Sarah), Lindsey Whitsitt (Zach), Logan Oakes (Katie), Benjamin Foster (Reagan), Delaney Foster, Nicole Foster, and Alexis Foster. In her role as a great grandmother, she delighted in the presence of six great grandchildren: Elizabeth Fox, Riley Whitsitt, Kyler Whitsitt, Phoebe Foster, Clara Mae Foster, and Naomi Oakes.

Delores was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 60 years, Robert Foster, and her parents, Harold Barnes and Georgia (Buckles) Faulds. Her brothers, Roger Barnes and Ray Barnes, also await her in the heavens, where their spirits surely rejoice in reunion.

As we gather to celebrate her remarkable life, let us remember Delores Lorraine (Barnes) Foster not only for the loving matriarch she was but also for the profound impact she had on each of us. Her unwavering faith, boundless love, and selfless acts of kindness will echo in our hearts forever. She touched so many lives, nurturing each with care, and for that, she will never be forgotten.

Visitation will be held at Christensen Family Funeral Home, located at 311 Holiday Square Road, Seymour, Indiana, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on December 4, 2024. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 PM, honoring a life well lived and a spirit that will continue to guide us from above. She will be laid to rest at Riverview Cemetery.

Friends are invited to leave condolence messages for the family at www.christensenfamilyfuneral.com.

Daniel and Betsy Christensen have been entrusted with the arrangements.