Lillian Jane Foster

Lillian Jane Foster: February 2, 1935, to September 14, 2024

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” . On Saturday, September 14th Lillian Jane Foster finished her own courageous seven-year race with dialysis with her staunch Christian faith and courage still on display. Jane’s faith walk began at an early age where she attended with her parents the Harvey Methodist Church in Harvey, WV. One Sunday morning while the congregation was singing a hymn, the minister heard a child singing and asked Jane to come forward and continue the hymn as a solo. As Jane grew in her faith there were many more opportunities for her to use her magnificent voice to elevate and inspire countless people. A multitude of brides, grieving families, as well as members of her congregation were truly affected by her God given gift. As a young adult Jane decided to become a member of the Oak Hill Methodist Church where through the years she served as choir director, soloist, pianist, and motivated and invigorated all who were in her sight. Among the countless areas that she influenced in her church work and because of her leadership in the “Disciple Program” she was instrumental in organizing a tutoring program for elementary school students who needed help with reading skills. She vigorously supported the United Methodist Women’s group, on the local, district and state levels. Her service on many committees helped guide the spiritual and business aspects of the church. The “Queen Mother”, as she was referred to by her pastor, was loved and respected for the unique gifted person that she was. 

Her creativity also extended into other undertakings. Piano playing, sewing, quilting and baking were all talents in which she excelled. Once you saw her beautiful creations, outfits made to wear, squares started that became beautiful quilts, crocheted Afghans, cross stitched covers or tasted Jane’s delicious shortbread or cabbage rolls, you were spoiled for life.

 Jane was a graduate of Mount Hope High School. After high school her career began with the state at Employment Security. She then moved to a position within the Department of Child Welfare, where if she had been able wanted to bring home to raise many of the children she encountered. Her career journey then turned to an endeavor with helping establish the organization called Fayette County Mental Health in Fayette County WV. Eventually this establishment became the Fayette Monroe Raleigh Summers Health Services of today. Jane worked for and retired from FMRS after thirty-three years of faithful service where she not only forged many lifelong friendships but also mentored many. She was a member of several civic organizations including Rhododendron Girls State where she served as music director for many years. She participated in Oak Hill’s Junior Women’s Club and Oak Hill Civic League. 

Her blessed life was extended by the sensitive care and special friendship of Tina Landers, as well as the competent caring staff of Fresenius Oak Hill Dialysis, Dr. Ali Suleiman, MD and staff, and Dr. Bryan Whyte, MD and staff. They all did everything possible not only to uplift her spirits but also to make her life more comfortable.

Born in Prudence, WV on February 2, 1935, she was predeceased by her parents Jess & Nadine Vargo Foster and a very special first cousin Ann Vargo Rogers. Left to savor their many treasured memories were her forever friend Donna Crane whose friendship and loyalty was a special gift, cousin and helpmate Scott Vargo (Brenda Kay) and remaining first cousins John Vargo (Dianna), Jim Vargo (Lori), Jill Vargo Sciara (Tony), Kim Coggins (Norman), Kathy Arnold and Melody Molleric (Joe). 

Our lives are forever changed by Jane’s influence and most importantly by her Christian example as she walked by faith serving her Lord and Savior each and every day of her life.

 A ceremony of Celebration of Jane’s blessed life will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024 at the Oak Hill United Methodist Church. Visitation at the Church will be from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with the celebration of life service beginning at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Kidney Foundation, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016 or the Oak Hill United Methodist Church Choir, 250 Main Street E, Oak Hill, WV 25901

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tyreefuneralhome.com

The family of Lillian Foster is being cared for by Tyree Funeral Home, Oak Hill.