Diane Luella "Dee" Foster

Diane Louella "Dee" Lethco Foster, 85, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2026.

Born on January 10, 1941, in Washington, D.C., Dee was raised in Arlington, Virginia. She graduated from the Duke University School of Nursing and dedicated her life to caring for others. She began her career teaching nursing in Danville, Virginia, before continuing her work with the State of North Carolina as a Nurse Consultant after relocating to the Raleigh area. Whether as a nurse, teacher, colleague, friend, wife, or mother, Dee found her greatest fulfillment in serving others. She had a gentle and caring spirit that touched countless lives throughout the years. To her family, she was the steady presence everyone could depend on, offering wisdom, comfort, and unconditional love.

Dee loved reading, birdwatching, bicycling, traveling, and she cherished time spent at the beach. Dee found joy in life's simple pleasures. Her life was divided between Danville, Virginia, where she raised her family, and the Raleigh, North Carolina area, where she made her home in later years. Dee will be remembered for her kindness, quiet strength, unwavering compassion, and lifelong commitment to helping others. The example she set through her love and service will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

She is survived by her devoted husband of thirty-five years, G. Reginald "Reggie" Foster; sons, Michael B. Martin and John W. Martin, both of Cary; sister, Helen R. "Bobbie" Lethco, of Raleigh; her beloved stepchildren, Mary Ruth Bird (Rick) and Arthur M. Martin (Pam); two grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her brother, John D. "Jack" Lethco; daughter-in-law, Peggy Martin (John); granddaughter, Melissa E. Bird; and former husband, Arthur M. "Bubba" Martin, Jr.

The family is grateful for the love, prayers, and support extended during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Transitions Life Care of Raleigh, 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh, N.C. 27607 for the tremendous care that Dee received, the First Presbyterian Church of Garner "Dee Foster Memorial Fund" or a charity of your choice in Dee's memory.

A memorial service and celebration of Dee's life will be held on August 7, 2026, at 1:00pm at The First Presbyterian Church of Garner, 503 Lakeside Drive, Garner, N.C. 27529. A reception will follow in the church Fellowship Hall.