Elizabeth (Betty) Jean Foster, née Townshend
March 4, 1929 – April 6, 2022
Betty Jean Townshend Foster died peacefully on Wednesday, April 6, 2022 in her 94th year. Beloved and devoted wife for 53 years of Canon Robert Wood Foster (March 2, 1927 – February 16, 2013). Dear daughter of the late Bishop William and Kathleen Townshend. Loving mother of Brenda Jean, Barbara Jane (David) and Brian Robert (Jennifer). Special Grandma to Jaeden, Kieran, Jorya, Tristan, Samantha, Kiahna, and Gavin. Affectionately remembered by sisters Barbara Ullerick (Gordon), Peggy Utting, and Nancy Lougheed, by sister-in-law Pat Townshend (Bob) and by many nieces and nephews. Adored sibling of the late Eleanor Monture (Monty), John Townshend (Ruth), Bill Townshend (Betty Mae), Mary Friesen (Howard), Jim Townshend, and Bishop Bob Townshend. Betty began her career as a teacher of a one-room classroom at Pond Mills School, followed by Princess Elizabeth Public School and the former Ryerson Public School. When Betty met Bob in 1958, she knew she had met the love of her life for he made her laugh and this laughter never stopped. She served as husband Bob’s right hand while he was Rector of parishes in Winona, Jordan, Milton, Hamilton, and The Church of The Redeemer in London. During their journey, they were blessed with three children whom she raised with a loving, patient grace and which she extended to each of her seven grandchildren. Betty will always be remembered for her love of a delicious cup of tea consumed while rocking in her chair, Euchre, playing the piano, Bing Crosby, hosting movie afternoons, the Bayfield cottage, crossword puzzles, her teacher reunions, Baileys, and the colour blue. In lieu of flowers, remembrances of Betty may be made to ‘The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund’ or to ‘LHSC Spiritual Care’. Visitation with the family will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 11, 2022 with the Celebration of Life to follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of St. John the Evangelist, 280 St. James St., London, Ontario. A post-service gathering will be held at Harris Funeral Home where stories can be told. Interment St. John the Divine Cemetery, Arva, Ontario.
“And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.” (Irish prayer)