It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Brenda Joyce Foster on March 05, 2024.
Brenda was born on July 13, 1954 in Lawrence County, Illinois, the daughter of Alva A. Foster and Mollie Virginia (Williams Cloud) Foster Chance. As a graduate of Lawrenceville High School, Brenda continued her education earning an Associate of Science Degree from Olney Central College in 1974 and a Bachelor of Science Degree from Eastern Illinois University in 1977. Brenda began her career as a teacher and coach, before moving on to Marathon Oil in 1979, from where she retired in 2005. Throughout her life, Brenda found joy researching genealogy in the library and on-line. Her love for her fur babies was evident to all who knew her, and she treasured the companionship they provided. She was a lifelong member of the Lawrenceville Free Methodist Church and was a faithful servant to the Lord. She found fulfillment in going to the Lawrence County Senior Citizens Center, fondly given the nickname, “Ineeda”, which she proudly would announce when she arrived, enjoying card games, and eating her favorite meal, spaghetti. Brenda made many friends at the Center, all who will miss her dearly. Preceding her in death were her parents; two sisters, Karen Foster and Judy Tracy; and one brother, Mark Foster. Survivors include her half-brother, Greg Chance and wife, Karen of Robinson, Illinois; one sister-in-law, Cammy Chance of Vincennes, Indiana; two nieces, Courtney Chance and wife, Shelby of Vincennes, Indiana and Chrissy Benson and husband, Tom of Lawrenceville, Illinois; and two nephews, Logan Chance and companion, Taylor of Newburgh, Indiana and Tony Tracy and wife, Kim of Lawrenceville, Illinois. Brenda adored her great-nephew, Gage, and he will miss his Aunt Brenda very much. Several great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins also survive. There will be no formal services conducted at this time, but a celebration of life will be planned at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lawrence County Senior Citizens Center, 1705 12th Street, Lawrenceville, Illinois 62439. Emmons-Macey & Steffey Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, Illinois is in charge of the arrangements. Please visit www.emmonsmaceysteffey.com to view the tribute and to send condolences.
