Obituary of Elaine Elizabeth Foster

October 29, 2024

Daughter of the late Ernest Webster Foster and Elizabeth (Dubec) Foster of Worcester, MA, loving sister to Ernest W. Foster Jr. (Audrey M. Foster) and the late Edward W. Foster and Aunt and great Aunt to many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great, great nieces and nephews.  

Elaine was Professor Emerita in the Art Department at New Jersey City University where she served as a faculty member for more than 30 years. Elaine completed her BA and MA degrees at Clark University, and her Ed.D. was from Teachers College, Columbia University. Dr. Foster also was awarded a Certificate from the Worcester Art Museum.  During her tenure at New Jersey City University, Dr. Foster rose through the ranks from Assistant Professor to Professor. She served as Chairperson of the Art Department for an extended period of time and led the Department through the accreditation process for the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. She also was instrumental in forming a jewelry design studio.

If you were fortunate enough to have been one of her students, know that she saw your potential and drew as much energy and inspiration from you as she gave.  She loved her students and rejoiced when reading or hearing about your accomplishments.  

Elaine loved art and fine metal working and was an accomplished artist and jewelry creator.  Among her many beautiful creations, Elaine proudly received design and utility patents on her tie brooch, a stunning jewelry accessory.

Elaine was a very strong advocate for women and women in the arts.  She was a former member of the board of Pen and Brush, a historic nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women and non-binary artists and writers, located in New York City.

Elaine cherished her family and friends, especially Margaret who loved and cared for Elaine over the past six years as family.  She joyously watched and celebrated each of their accomplishments and milestones, large and small. Elaine was a solid source of encouragement and inspiration to many, with a consistent message- pursue education as a means to reach your true passion.

Elaine lived 90 vibrant years, her heart forever intertwined with the pulse of New York City. From her beloved Village, she embraced the energy and eclectic spirit of the streets, finding joy in every corner, café, theatre, gallery, and museum. To her, it was always "New York or Nowhere," a mantra that echoed through her laughter and adventures. Though she has passed on, her spirit will forever walk the lively avenues and quiet lanes of NYC, reminding us of the love she held for this extraordinary city.

Our dear Elaine achieved her ultimate dream of taking her last breath of almost 91 years in this beautiful New York City that she loved so much.

From all whose life she touched, we bid Elaine a beautiful journey after a life very well lived.