Elizabeth Ann Foster

Elizabeth Ann “Ann” Foster, a Colorado native, passed away on May 24, 2025, in Littleton, Colorado, at the age of 82. Born on May 3, 1943, in Denver to Nadine and Billy Shively, Ann was an only child who grew up surrounded by a large and loving extended family of cousins, with whom she remained close throughout her life.

Ann met her former husband, Stephen Thomas “Tom” Foster, also a Colorado native, when they were just 16 years old. Though they later divorced, they remained friends throughout her life and shared the deep bond of raising four children together.

Ann’s favorite role in life was being a mother. She taught her children that “family is everything—and without it, you have nothing.” She poured her heart into raising her family, and once her children were in school, she began working outside the home. She held positions as a bookkeeper at a nursery, worked in accounts payable for a lawbook publisher, and eventually retired as an Accounts Payable Supervisor with Centura Health.

Ann was an amazing cook who brought people together through her food. She was active in the PTA during her children’s early years and sang in the church choir—singing was a joyful outlet she carried with her throughout her life. She absolutely adored Christmas and went out of her way to make every Christmas magical—decorating every corner of her home, baking countless treats, and hosting a warm and memorable Christmas Eve gathering for her family. Planning began the day after Thanksgiving, and she often said, “even my lists have lists.” Her grandchildren lovingly called her “Cookie Grandma” for their cherished tradition of baking and decorating cookies together each year.

She had a passion for antiquing, which she affectionately called “junking,” especially alongside her close friend Sandy. Over the years, she amassed an impressive collection of antique glass, finding joy in uncovering and preserving forgotten treasures.

Ann was exceptionally bright, witty, and full of warmth. Her sharp sense of humor and unwavering love made a lasting impression on everyone she met. She gave the best hugs and loved her children and grandchildren unconditionally. She made people feel seen, loved, and at home—her presence was a gift in itself.

In her final weeks, she often sang “You Are My Sunshine,” the same song she sang to her children when they were young—whoever was with her would join in, filling the room with love and memory.

Mom, Grandma—we miss you dearly and will love you forever. Your life was a blessing to everyone who knew you, and an even greater blessing to us. Your unwavering love, generous heart, and sharp wit can never be duplicated, but will remain in our hearts forever.

You will always be our sunshine. We love you so very much.

Ann is preceded in death by her parents, Nadine and Billy Shively.

She is survived by her former husband, Tom Foster; her children, Kimberly Macaulay, Kerrie Clapp, Jonathan Foster, and Jeffrey Foster; and her six beloved grandchildren.