Patricia Mary Foster

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Patricia Mary Foster on January 13, 2025. Patricia departed this world surrounded by love, held by her daughter, and cared for by the compassionate hospice team at Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte, NC.

Born on September 9, 1944, in a village in southern England, Patricia “Trish” was the cherished daughter of Reginald and Jean Archbold. In 1973, she met and married her husband, Benjamin Foster. Together, they began a new adventure that brought Patricia across the Atlantic to the United States, where they welcomed their beloved daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” Foster. After Benjamin’s passing in 1986, Trish settled in Emory, Virginia, where she cultivated a network of loving and enduring friendships.

Known for her warmth and inclusivity, she had a unique ability to turn acquaintances into lifelong “framily,” a term lovingly coined by her daughter to describe Trish’s close-knit circle of friends, in-laws, and colleagues.

In 2016, Trish moved to Charlotte, NC, to live with Liz. There, she quickly became a beloved member of the community, known for her vivacious personality, razor-sharp wit, and unwavering independence. Trish was sassy, strong, kind, and compassionate. Her candid humor endeared her to all who crossed her path, and her genuine warmth left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Trish is preceded in death by her husband, Benjamin Foster; her parents, Reginald and Jean Archbold; and her sisters, Linda Archbold and Suzanne Duckworth. She is survived by her brother, Richard Archbold, and his wife, Angie Robinson; her stepdaughters, Belinda Foster, Brigitte Foster, Bonnie Henderson, and Betina Foster; and the greatest joy of her life, her daughter, Liz Foster. Trish often shared that the last eight years spent living with Liz in Charlotte were among her most treasured, and in her final days, she lovingly declared Liz to be her greatest achievement.

Trish’s legacy is one of love, resilience, and connection. Her open heart and boundless capacity for joy and laughter enriched the lives of all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.

Celebrations of Trish’s life will be held on January 21, 2025, at 5 p.m. at City Church in Charlotte, NC, and on January 25, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Farris Funeral Home in Abingdon, VA. Flowers may be sent to City Church (2300 McClintock Rd, Charlotte, NC 28205) or to Farris Funeral Service (427 E Main St, Abingdon, VA 24210). For those who wish to make a lasting tribute, donations in her memory may be made to Novant Health Hospice, P.O. Box 33549, Charlotte, NC 28233.