Ella Francina Firebaugh Foster

Ella Firebaugh Foster (Fran), 76, of Salem, passed away on Thursday, October 30, 2014. She was born on May 13, 1938 to the late James Arthur Firebaugh, Sr. and Ella Etzler Firebaugh, in Fincastle, Va. Following her graduation from Fincastle High School in 1956 she pursued a teaching degree from Radford College. She had a love for basketball and always made time outside of her academic studies to play for both her high school and college teams. After graduating from Radford in 1960, Fran pursued her teaching career; teaching in Botetourt, Henrico, and Roanoke County schools, as well as the City of Salem before retiring. In addition to public education she also enjoyed her ministry as a Sunday School Teacher. Fran was a dedicated member of First United Methodist Church in Salem since 1967, and a previous member of Fincastle Baptist. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, James Arthur Firebaugh, Jr.; sister, Genevieve Firebaugh Austin; and brothers-in-law, Courtney D. Austin and William P. Austin. Family remaining to cherish her memory includes her husband of 53 years, Dale L. Foster, Sr.; daughter and son-in-law, Virginia (Jenny) King and husband, Chris, of Salem; son and daughter-in-law, Dale L. Foster, Jr. and wife Laura, of Salem; grandchildren, Christen King, Hunter King, Calvin Foster, AnnElese Galleo, and Benjamin Foster; sister, Nancy Firebaugh Austin, of Williamson, Ga.; sister-in-law, Eunice Thompson Firebaugh, of Troutville, Va.; and brother-in-law, Samuel C. Foster and wife, Rita, of Blue Ridge, Va. Memorial services to honor Mrs. Fosters life will be held on Saturday, November 8, 2014 at 11 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, in Salem, with Rev. Stephen G. Bray officiating. A private family graveside service will be held at Sherwood Memorial Park in Salem. Flowers will be accepted, or donations may be made to First United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 125 West Main Street, Salem, Va. 2415. A guestbook is available by visiting www.johnmoakey.com. John M. Oakey & Son Funeral Home and Crematory, Salem is honored to serve the Foster family, (540) 389-5441.Service Information

Saturday, November 8th, 2014 11:00am,

First United Methodist Church

125 W. Main St. Salem, VA 24153

Interment Location

Sherwood Memorial Park

1250 East Main Street Salem, VA