James E. Foster, 81
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — James E. Foster, 81, passed away on Jan. 18, 2024, in Fort Pierce, Fla. surrounded by his loving family after a hard-fought battle with leukemia.
Jim was born on March 31, 1942, in North Adams, the son of the late Daniel Newell Foster and Catherine (Felix). He graduated from Drury High School with the class of 1960 (where he was named Best Dancer) and from North Adams State College.
He began his career as a teacher, first in the Pittsfield school system and then at Brayton Junior High. He then became a familiar face on Main Street in North Adams, at Lilly's Music House and as owner of Lamb's Stationery Store in the 1970s and 80s.
During this time, Jim was very active in the community, serving on the North Adams School Committee, as chair of the Northern Berkshire United Way, and as a member of the North Adams Rotary Club. He loved playing golf and was a longtime member of the North Adams Country Club.
Jim married Joan (Winslow) in 1987, and they lived in Bennington, VT for many years. He embarked on a 20-year career as a social worker with the Bennington Department of Children and Families. Jim loved working on behalf of children, and he touched the lives of many people during his time at DCF. He also became a life member of the Elks Club.
In retirement, Jim and Joan moved to Fort Pierce, Fla., where they made many special friends and enjoyed so many good times. They enjoyed trips with the family, and Jim brought his dancing shoes along for all occasions.
In addition to his beloved wife Joan, Jim leaves his daughter Kimberley (Edward) of South Hadley, MA, son Jeffrey of San Francisco, and stepson David Trombley (Laura) of Youngsville, NC; grandchildren Olivia and Grace Trombley, and Jessica, Erin, Ryan and Sean Vattimo; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a brother, Daniel W. Foster, and a stepdaughter, Betsey Vattimo.
A memorial service in celebration of Jim's life will be held at Aycock Funeral Home, 6026 North US Highway 1, Fort Pierce, FL 34946 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Treasure Coast Hospice Foundation, 1201 SE Indian Street, Stuart, FL 34997, https://treasurehealth.org, or Hairy Cell Leukemia Foundation, 77 Van Ness Ave Ste 101 #1617, San Francisco, CA 94102.