Florence Foster

Honoring the Life of Florence Foster
Florence Foster entered this life on September 14, 1934 to the loving parents of Simon and Victoria Grant.
Surrounded by family who cherished and cared for her deeply, Florence was promoted to the other side of eternity
on Sunday, August 21, 2022.

A long-time resident of Elizabeth, NJ Florence received her education in the Elizabeth public school system. From
there, Florence’s professional journey anchored her to 1 place of employment for her entire career. Before retiring
in 2004, she worked for Alexian Brother’s Hospital for over 30 years where, at the height of her career, she served as
Dietary Supervisor overseeing all kitchen responsibilities. These responsibilities included everything from managing
15 – 20 dietary aids and cooks, to overseeing supplies, food inventory, and equipment maintenance. And
remember, back then, there were no fancy computers to help with this type of management. But Florence, being
self-taught, always kept things flowing and ensured that every patient tray and every meal was up to the highest
possible standards. She was repeatedly recognized by Management with awards which included “not missing a day
of work”. Her strong work ethic positioned her as a role model for others to follow.

Beyond work, Florence’s early childhood included the good times she shared with her parents and siblings.
Eventually, Flo would branch off and create a family of her own with Odell Hines and welcome two beautiful girls
into the world – Terry and Roxanne. Later in life, she met and married Walter Foster and from this union her family
expanded even further when she welcomed 3 more children into her nest – Walter, Jr., Randy and Rochelle. From
these, the family tree blossomed even further as she celebrated the arrival of the next generation which included 10
grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.

OK, and can we talk about Livingston Street? Florence’s Elizabeth residence on Livingston Street was a place where
extended family gathered for love, laughter, and off-the-hook fun. When you hit the curb of this residence, not
even the front door, you knew you were going to have a great time. The fun typically started outside on the front
steps, made its way onto the porch, traveled through the living room, and ended up in the kitchen where there was
a big yellow pot on the stove. Whether it was her red rice, peas & rice, yellow turnips, or collard greens, the yellow
pot was a container of love. And as Flo chilled in her “back” room, the house itself was energized by family and
friends. From the time she purchased this home in 1973, Flo’s place was always one where the door was opened
wide, and her heart opened even wider.

Later in life, as she moved on up to the eastside, she and her constant companions – grandsons Tyrone and Trevor
then relocated to Rahway, NJ in 2005. Never one to complain, there she lived a quiet and unassuming life and her
gentle ways and gentle voice, that seemed to linger in the air like a song, warmed the hearts of all those she
encountered.

As a woman of faith, Florence believed in God and joined the New Zion Baptist Church under the pastorate of
Reverend Johnnie Melvin Greene, Jr. Her spiritual walk was deepened, and faith increased as she continued her
membership under her current pastor, Reverend Kevin J. White, Sr. As a member of the church, Florence lent her
talent and expertise in the church’s kitchen during special occasions and on Sundays, she could usually be found
sitting on her favorite pew.

Preceding her in eternal living were two children – Terry and Roxanne Hines and two grandchildren – Bryant Keith
Foster and Gloria-Ann Ashley Foster.

Never one to be forgotten, Florence will leave lasting memories to her children: Son – Walter Foster (Cindy), 2
Daughters – Randy Foster, Rochelle Mosley (Percy); 8 Grandchildren – Tamica Hines, Tyrone Hines, Mone’ Foster
(Jamesha), Brea Bailey (Jerry), Monte Walter Foster, Korey Ali Foster, Ashford Simon Foster, and Trevor James, Jr.; 7
Great-Grandchildren – Gregory Hurling (Sadia), Tajanay Hines, Karriema Hines (Donitta), Legacy Smith, Brixton
Knight Bailey, Oaklyn Rae Bailey, Maverick Foster; 1 Great-Great Grandchild – Gregory Hurling, Jr.; 2 Brothers –
Gilbert Grant (Christine), Robert Grant (Sandy); 2 Sisters – Victoria McLean and Geraldine Clyburn; plus a circle of
good people who loved her unconditionally and will forever keep her present within our hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Florence Foster, please visit our floral store.