Maude Foster

On October 3, 2015, at the remarkable age of 101, Maude Beckham Foster died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Vienna.

Maude was preceded in death by her parents; Maude Hamner Beckham and Dr. Paul Warriner Beckham, as well as her siblings; Evelyn, Royall and Tommy. She is survived by a son; John Beckham Foster of Blackstone and a step son, Shelton Foster of Far,ville, as well as numerous nieces, nephes, great nieces and great nephews and their children.

Although her family addressed her as Maudie, most of her friends called her "Randy" a nick name for Randolph (Which was her middle name).

Maudie was born in Farmville, VA on July 31, 1914 and was reared in that charming town. She left to attend Marion Junior College, returned to Farmville and graduated from what is now known as Longwood University. Credentials in hand, Maudie set out to pursue a life od teaching, travel and adventure.

Southwerstern University was where Maudie had her very first teaching job. She later traveled to Texas to teach and that entire experience was one of her first professional :adventures". She taught in Hopewell and other locations in Virginia before heading out to Northern Virginia where she taught for many years until her retiement. The majority of that time was in Fairfax County. She loved her young students and was thrilled by their enthusiam and achievements.

In 1950, Maudie married William Foster and they bought a home in a new development in Vienna. She delighted in her home on Holmes Drive and enjoyed living there until her death.

Maudie and William had a son, John Beckham and she added the role of mother to her resum'e a role she cherished. Her life was busy and happy!

Over the years Maudie made many, many friends and she treasured those friendships. The Newcomers Club and her bridge group were her favorites.

Maudie combined her interest in friendship, history and travel when she became a member of The Shillelagh Travel Club.

With the Shillelaghs she traveled extensively, even going to Russia at a time when not many chose to explore that country. Russia fascinated her, the history, the art, the culture. She also aspecially enjoyed Egypt.

Maude was an amazingly talented quilter and created many magnificent quilts sewn entirely by hand with microscopic stitches. The quilts are truley works of art and have become family heirlooms.

Maudie physician of many years, Dr. Thomas Graziano was not only her doctor, but also one of her most beloved friends. It is thanks to his wonderful care and support that she enjoyed such a long life.

Maudie was a loving and beloved, beautiful, talented, fun lady who lived her life to the fullest. We miss you dearest Maudie!

A graveside service was held Wednesday October 7,2015 in Westview Cemetery at 11:00 AM in Farmville,Va.In liew of flowers the family would like donations be made to Capital Caring Hospice,2900 Telstar Court,Falls Church ,Va 22042.             Shorters Funeral Home is serving the family