Dwight L. Foster

A proud veteran, dedicated educator, and beloved family member, Dwight lived a full and meaningful life, marked by service, passion, and generosity.

Born in May 1937 in Mineral Springs, North Carolina, Dwight went on to serve his country with honor as a U.S. Army Combat Engineer during the Vietnam War. His bravery and leadership earned him numerous awards and commendations, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Following his military service, Dwight channeled his commitment to excellence into education. As a passionate teacher, trainer, and lecturer, he founded a school for surveyors and later went on to serve as Executive Director for Construction Education. He had an unmatched ability to light up a room with his presence and knowledge. His commitment to safety and standards also led to his service on the Governor’s Safety Council in Florida under Governor Jeb Bush. In recognition of his contributions, he was named Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Man of the Year.

Dwight lived and traveled widely - residing in Italy, Alaska, and spent much of his adult life in Florida. In his later years, he settled in Manning, South Carolina on the shore of Church Branch Lake and eventually moved to the Veteran Village in Florence, SC, where he spent his final two years.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lidubina (Lee) Fajardo Foster, as well as his sisters Lillie Bass, Evelyn Price, Myrtie Helms, and Mary Becker; his brothers Grady, L.T., and James Foster; and his parents, Grover and Polly Foster.

Dwight is survived by his great-niece, Karen Price and great-nephew, Jeff Price, who loved him and Lee as second parents. He is also remembered with love by nieces Carolyn Price, Sylvia Foster, and Fanny Brown; nephews John and Bill Bass, Tommy and Roger Foster, Benny, David, and Randy Helms; great-nephew Mike Price; and great-nieces Shelly Starnes, Dana McIntyre, Amy Manus, Lisa Bass, Christy Stover, and Kim Brown.

Dwight had a deep love for life and people. He found joy fishing, boating, camping, and golf. He loved driving his truck and cruising around the neighborhood in his golf cart. He had many cherished pets in his life, and his affection for cats, dogs, and birds was part of his warm and nurturing nature. Always the host, he could often be found in the yard with a cigar in one hand and a cold beer or fresh margarita in the other, smoking meat and telling stories with a smile. He had a gift for making others feel heard, valued, and welcome.

He was a hero, a teacher, and a friend - and he will be deeply missed.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 10:00 am until 10:45 am at McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe, located at 204 South Main Street, Monroe, North Carolina. A service to celebrate Dwight’s life will be held following the visitation at 11:00 am with Pastor Jeff Whitecotton officiating. Burial with full military honors will then be held after the service at Lakeland Memorial Park.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.mcewenmonroechapel.com for the Foster family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to McLeod Hospice House of Florence, SC, in Dwight’s memory.

McEwen Funeral Home of Monroe is honored to serve the family of Dwight L. Foster.