Bettye Jean Foster

It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Bettye Jean Foster, who peacefully left this world on September 11, 2026, at her home in Birmingham, AL. Born on August 10, 1937, in Birmingham, Bettye was the cherished daughter of Jake and Annie Lue Bivins. Bettye was a beacon of strength and grace, whose life was a testament to love, family, and community. She was predeceased by her devoted husband, Howard Lee Foster, her beloved son, Darryl Foster Sr., her parents, and her siblings Desi Bivins, George Washington (GW) Bivins, Edna Summerlin, Mary Margaret Mack, Mildred Glass, Ruby Waldrup, and one other brother. Her legacy continues through her loving daughters, Carolyn Turner (Frederick) and Angela Copeland (Larry), her treasured grandchildren, Frederick and Eric (Ashley) Turner, and Darryl Foster, Jr., and her dear daughter-in-law, Arlene Huffman. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Willie B. Foster, and her lifelong best friend, Zola Radden. Bettye's journey was marked by a commitment to education and service. A proud graduate of Ulman High School in Birmingham, she furthered her education at Miles College in Fairfield, AL. Her professional life was dedicated to the Social Security Administration, where she served diligently as a Benefit Authorizer for over 25 years until her retirement on July 1, 2003. A woman of deep faith, Bettye was an active and devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Acipco. Her powerful voice graced the choir, and her generous spirit found a home in the Missionary Society. She was a pillar of her church community, always ready to lend a hand and share her joy. Bettye cherished her role as a matriarch, finding immense joy in gatherings with her family, particularly the lively family cookouts she so loved. She had a passion for shopping, which was only rivaled by her love for those closest to her. A celebration of Bettye's life will be held on September 19, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Acipco, located at 1629 32nd Avenue North, Birmingham, AL. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Missionary Society at First Baptist Church, Acipco, in memory of Bettye's unwavering dedication and service. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Compassus Hospice team—Jane Marie, Temeka, Carla, Barbara, Glenda, and Morgan—for their compassionate care, and to her neighbors Gwendolyn Thornton and Thesul Thomas, whose kindness and support were a true blessing. Bettye Jean Foster will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and her indomitable spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.