Carmen Amelia Foster

Carmen Sanchez, a woman of indomitable spirit and boundless love, passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 6, 2026, at the Brentwood Health Center. Born on November 8, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio, Carmen's life was a testament to resilience, creativity, and the deep bonds of family. The daughter of Raphael Sanchez and Juanita Sanchez Broughton, and raised by her stepfather Clarence Broughton, Carmen was instilled with the values of strength and compassion from an early age. She was predeceased by her parents, her dear sister Guadalupe Moone, her nephew Victor Moon, and her cherished youngest son, Ian Emilio "Rocky" Foster. The legacy of love she leaves behind is carried on by her surviving children—Cande, Cameron, and Erin—her loving grandchildren Damien, Devin, Nakisha, Camille, Dane, and Carlee, and her beloved great-grandchildren Hailey, Leia, Luke, Raina, and Nevaeh. Her extended family, including Jill, Kevin, Leticia, Carlos, Christina, Kim, Donna, Anthony, Melissa, and Patricia, will forever hold her in their hearts. Carmen's professional journey was as vibrant as her personality. In the 1970s, she brought her creative flair to Marina del Rey's Knit Wit, designing and crocheting exquisite swimwear. Later, she transitioned to a fulfilling career with the City of Santa Monica, retiring in 2013 from the library—a fitting place for a woman whose life was steeped in the written word, though we were not allowed to call her a librarian. Her love for reading was legendary, a passion she cultivated throughout her life and passed down to her family. Whether with a book or a crochet needle, Carmen's hands were rarely still. The hats, scarves, and gloves she crafted will be cherished keepsakes for her family, tangible reminders of her love and talent. Carmen was a dedicated member of her community, actively fundraising for Our Lady of Victory elementary school and participating in various projects with the wives of Richland Farms. Her commitment to service and her love for her family were the cornerstones of her life. A woman of remarkable character, Carmen celebrated 45 years of sobriety—a testament to her unwavering determination and strength. Half of these decades maintained completely of her own volition. Her life was also filled with joy and whimsy. Carmen had a fondness for Disney movies and was a devoted fan of Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune, where she would enthusiastically shout out the answers from her chair. Her playful spirit shone brightly during family game nights, where she couldn't resist joining in, despite her reluctance to officially participate. Carmen's family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Hannah and Leslie at Halverson Stone & Myers for their compassionate care and support in honoring her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Los Angeles SPCA in Carmen's name. As we remember Carmen, we hold close the words that capture her essence: "A Mother is Mom, who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take." Her love, strength, and joy will be deeply missed, but her spirit will remain with us always.