Barbara Anne Foster

Barbara A. Foster (Butterfield) 8/2/1939-08/10/2026

Barbara was born on August 2, 1939, in Portland, Maine, to Guy and Rita (St. Pierre) Butterfield, who preceded her in death. After graduating from Cathedral High School, she married the love of her life, Stephen R. Foster Sr., on October 29, 1960.

Together, Barbara and Steve built a life filled with love, adventure, and cherished memories. During Steve’s Air Force career, they traveled extensively and lived in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, New Hampshire, France, Spain, Italy, and the Netherlands. Steve often remarked that while he loved the adventure, Barbara loved it even more. Her enthusiasm for exploring new places and embracing new experiences enriched their lives and created countless treasured memories.

Barbara’s strength, resilience, and determination were evident throughout her life, including in her successful battle against breast cancer. Her Catholic faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was a devoted member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Huber Heights, where she attended Mass regularly. Though naturally independent and private, Barbara never left her family wondering how deeply she loved them. Her quiet devotion was reflected in her actions and unwavering presence.

Barbara and Steve raised two children, Mary Kincaid (Dan) and Stephen Foster Jr. (Sherill), who, along with Steve, survives her. She was preceded in death by Mary’s first husband, Tim Sherman. Barbara’s love for her children was evident in the countless sacrifices she made on their behalf. She consistently placed their needs above her own, ensuring they were cared for, supported, and loved. She was, simply put, a wonderful mother. After moving to Ohio in 2011, Barbara and Mary enjoyed Saturday coffee dates and shopping trips together. Barbara’s son, Stephen Jr. was also close by and she was able to visit often with him and his family.

Barbara’s legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren: Tim Sherman (Ashleigh), Lucy Bowman (Andy), Stephanie Foster, Sharon Foster, Stephen Foster III, Stephani Hobert (Tim), Chris Kincaid (Erin), Mark Salano (Elaiza), Shereene Foster, and Kristopher Salano (Ebriela). She was also blessed with great-grandchildren, Samuel Bowman, Hewitt Sherman, Merritt Sherman, August Edwards, Hayden Hobert, Carson Hobert, Christian Kincaid, Gracelynn Kincaid, Bryson Salano, and Kaiona Salano, each of whom brought her great joy.

The oldest of five children, Barbara is also survived by her siblings Mary Belanger (husband Don, deceased), Linda Crouanas (Murph), Tom Butterfield (wife Rhonda, deceased), and sister-in-law Carolyn Butterfield, widow of her brother Michael. Barbara embraced the responsibilities of being the eldest sibling from an early age, helping care for her younger brothers and sisters and setting an example of love, dedication, and family commitment that endured throughout her life.

Barbara will be remembered for her strength, adventurous spirit, steadfast faith, and deep love for her family. Her life was a testament to quiet devotion, selfless care, and the enduring bonds of family. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.