Grace Brand Foster

Grace Brand Foster, a gentle soul, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, on August 20, 2024, after a multi-year struggle with Alzheimer’s. Born on March 19, 1940, in LaGrange, Georgia, Grace described her life as ‘charmed’. She departed from this world in Eustis, Florida, leaving a legacy of love, education, and faith that will forever be cherished.

Raised in Georgia by her parents, the late Joseph "JB" Brock Brand and Marie Perry Brand, Grace was the sister to Annette Brand and Joel Brand. She shared a strong bond with her siblings, a connection fortified through shared memories and family ties. Grace's family circle was wide and loving, including her treasured children Jeff Foster (Jacqui) of Fruita, CO, Leigh F. Bacher (Blair) of Ithaca, NY, and Tracy F. Draper (Bill) of Eustis, FL, who will carry her memory in their hearts. Grace's love was further multiplied by her adored grandchildren Sunny Moore, Jordan Draper, Jay Campbell, Suzie Draper, and Cameron Foster.

In 1962, Grace united in marriage with her high school sweetheart, Charles Byron Foster (“Chuck”), in Macon. Chuck tragically passed away in 2016, yet Grace’s deep love and respect for him gave her strength to engage in life. Grace's life was enriched by the company of her in-laws Cecelia and Harry Dennis, Randy and Anne Foster, and her cousin Sandra Bowen, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins who were all a testament to her deep family roots. Grace's loving presence will also be missed by her beloved calico cat, Kami.

Foremost, Grace was a devoted wife and mother; she cherished her role as a homemaker. However, once her children were in high school, her desire to become an educator prompted her to obtain a Master's degree in education from Columbus College. She began sharing her many gifts more broadly as a substitute teacher at Harris County High School. Her dedication to teaching blossomed as she became a valued educator at WM Henry Shaw High School, Kendrick High School, and Columbus High School in Columbus, GA. Across her 20 years of teaching, Grace touched many lives with compassion and kindness. The foundation for her love of education was laid during her time at Tift College for Women (Class of 1962). She was supported by a Callaway Scholarship, and was first in her family to graduate from college.

Her involvement in church life was a reflection of her southern roots: that church was an important part of a proper life. Grace actively participated in Sunday School, choir, library, and bereavement committee, and even educated local homeschool children in Dothan following her retirement.

Grace's life was adorned with creative pursuits: sewing, making crafts and a thirst for reading. She was crowned May Queen in high school and continued to share her musical talents through singing in choirs and playing the piano until her health began to decline. She also supported her husband Chuck, a U.S. Army officer, by volunteering and hosting events for the Officer's Wives Club during his service, including his time in Vietnam.

Devoted, faithful, and intelligent, Grace Foster lived a life that exemplified these values in every endeavor. Her legacy is one of compassion and an unwavering commitment to her family, friends and students. She has left an indelible mark on the community. Grace's life was a testament to her name, and she will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know her.

A celebration of Grace's life will be held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 11am CST at Sunset Memorial Park Funeral in the chapel with Pastor Chuck Locke officiating. The family will be visiting with friends following the service from 12:00-1:00pm CST in the Sunset Chapel. Grace will be laid to rest with her husband in the Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Cornerstone Hospice, ICU Staff at Advent Health in Tavares, FL and Alto Senior Living residents and staff. Flowers are welcome, as Grace was an avid gardener. Memorial donations may be made in Grace's honor to the Thee Store, a ministry of the Southeast Alabama Baptist Association, a special place in Grace's heart where she served for years as a volunteer in Dothan.

"To Thine Own Self Be True" - Shakespeare