Foster Osterphan Azariah Lyne

Foster spent his formative years enjoying the tropical sun and sand of Antigua. He moved to Nova Scotia in 1972 to attend Saint Mary's University, where he earned his doctorate in Mathematics. His wife, Lolita, followed a few years later in 1976, and together they married at All Nations Church and put down roots in Halifax.

He worked as an educator in Antigua before emigrating to Canada to pursue higher education. After graduation, he taught Math at Sackville High and later at Charles P. Allen High from 1978 until his retirement in 2009. Foster was also a professor of Mathematics at Saint Mary's University until 2024. Although he held a doctorate, Foster always preferred to be called "Mr. Lyne."

Foster's love of teaching was a core part of his identity. While he spent most of his time in the classroom, he always made himself available after school and during office hours for students who wanted extra instruction, advice, or guidance. Some students might have only been there for his legendary bread, but that was encouraged too. A larger part of his identity was his ability to make human connections. Quick trips to the store were rare with Foster, as he would invariably run into someone he knew and stop to talk and catch up on the intervening years. Everybody knew Mr. Lyne.

Foster was devoted to All Nations Church, where he served as a pillar of the community for over 50 years. He faithfully attended services every Sunday and actively participated in various church activities. His presence and charm were magnetic, and he will be deeply missed.

Foster is survived by his wife of 49 years, Lolita; siblings: Joseph(Vashti) and family, Edith and family, Chrystal and family, Ila (Peter) and family, Bernard and family, Courtney’s family, Veron “Curlie” and family, Dan and family, Dave and family, Vennis’ family, Alister and family, Edmond’s family; children: Marvin, Andre(Andrea), Jody(Sera), and Jevon(Rachelle); Kewoba, the daughter he never had; and grandchildren: Laryah, Jordan, Demarion, Azariah, Kianna, Anayah, Kasen, Damien, Jacob, and Samuel; great-grandchildren: Ella, and Ever. Many nieces, nephews and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Viola; siblings: Edmond, Courtney, Oriel, Vennis.

A celebration of life and reception will be held on April 9th, 11:00 AM, at All Nations Church, 2535 Robie St, Halifax, NS. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to All Nations Church in his honor.