BIOGRAPHY

Foster was born in Bay Creek, Georgia, USA, on 27 March 1906, as the youngest of 12 children of George Beauregard Brooks (1861–1939) and Emma Jane Palmer (1867–1951). She graduated from Grayson High School in 1925 and married her high school sweetheart, Clyde Edgar Foster (1905–1978), in 1928. They operated her father’s store and moved to a different house during the Great Depression to manage it for him. She lived there for the rest of her life. The couple had three daughters: Sara Miles (died in 2003), Patricia Williams (died in 2013), and Mary Thompson.

Foster was a devoted Christian and an active member of Grayson First Baptist Church for as long as her health allowed. She served in various roles, including pianist, Sunday school teacher, and on WMU committees, and helped prepare the Lord’s Supper. She was also deeply involved in her daughters’ school activities and engaged in community and civic endeavors.

For her 90th birthday, she requested a wheelbarrow—and received one. She continued to drive and garden until she turned 100. In March 2015, the road crossing near her home was dedicated in her honor. The unveiling of the road sign took place at the former Grayson High School in Loganville, where she had been a student.

Foster passed away in Loganville, Georgia, USA, on 21 October 2016, at the age of 110 years, 208 days. She was survived by her daughter Mary, three granddaughters, and three great-granddaughters.

RECOGNITION

Her age was verified by Stefan Maglov and Jimmy Lindberg, and validated by LongeviQuest on 11 September 2024.

ATTRIBUTION

* “Loganville’s Nell Foster celebrates 110 years” – Gwinnett Citizen, 13 April 2016

* “Obituary: Runell Brooks Foster” – Tom Wages Funeral Services (Lawrenceville, GA)

* Runell “Mrs. Nell” Brooks Foster – Find A Grave

GALLERY