James Gene Foster

James Gene Foster passed away peacefully the morning of Saturday, September 18 with his wife of 51 years and two sons by his side. A celebration of his life will take place at a later date.

James was born in Austin, Texas, the youngest of nine children, and grew up in Dallas. A proud army veteran, he was transferred by Delta Airlines to New Orleans in 1968. There he met the love of his life Suzy Foster. They were married in 1970, eight months after meeting. James worked for Delta Airlines for over 30 years before retiring in 1992.

His alma mater was the University of Texas in Arlington and he was a member of Mensa.

James enjoyed spending time with his wife, family, grandsons, and grand-pups. He liked traveling and relaxing over having coffee and beignets with Suzy.

He is survived by his wife Lillian Susana Garcia Foster and two sons; James “Jeff” Gene Foster, Jr. of New Orleans and Michael E. Foster and his wife Maureen Dugas Foster of Lafayette; three beloved grandsons, Aidan, Desmond, and Wallace Foster; his brother-in-law Stephen C. Hartel, Jr (Pat); his nieces, Gennie Hartel Brown (Matt), Nikki Hartel, Stephanie Hartel Pomy (Brad), and great nephew Stephen Brown; his nephew James Edward Foster and wife Molly and their four children Heather Unger (Tyler), Garrett Foster, Claire Foster, Ryan Foster, and great-great niece Sophie Unger of Richardson, Texas.

He is preceded in death by his parents Ed Foster of Manor, Texas and Ivy Steaples Foster of Austin, Texas, eight siblings, and his sister-in-law and dear friend Conchita Garcia Hartel.

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home and Cemeteries is handling all arrangements.