Jill Elaine Foster

Jill Elaine Foster was born on December 10, 1946, to James “Jim” and Dorothy “Dot” (MacDonald) Carvin. She grew up in Haddonfield, NJ, alongside her brother, Randy.

After graduating from high school, Jill attended Southern Seminary Junior College in Virginia. Not long afterward, she met her former husband, John J. Foster, Jr. Together they raised their only son, John J. Foster, III. Like many young families, they worked hard to build a better life, moving from a small apartment in Philadelphia, PA, to a small house near the city. Eventually, they took a leap and moved to the country, Wycombe, PA. There, they undertook the ambitious renovation of a 1903 Victorian home, an adventure that included sleeping by the fireplace in the living room to keep warm during the frigid winters. During this time, Jill returned to school to earn her esthetician and massage therapy licenses. What began as training soon became a lasting passion; Jill threw herself wholeheartedly into her work, earning a reputation for dedication, skill, and an ever-growing list of specialization certifications. It was during the years in Wycombe when Jill pursued entrepreneurship, starting in a partnership that owned and operated a salon, which led to her owning and operating her own business. It was also during this time that she met her dearest and lifelong friend, Marjorie Apple.

Jill and Marjorie’s bond was immediate and enduring. Together with their sons, John and Tim, they shared ski trips and family adventures that laid the foundation for a friendship that would span many decades. They had many common interests such as classical music, Broadway, animals (particularly dogs), and travel.

After 20 years of marriage, Jill and John divorced. She eventually made her way to Lambertville, NJ, where she purchased another historic home, built in the 1800s. She continued to work tirelessly, eventually opening her own business in neighboring New Hope, PA. Jill never stopped learning, always seeking additional training to better serve her clients. Outgoing and armed with a dry sense of humor and an unwaveringly positive outlook, Jill made lasting friendships – something evidenced by the tall stacks of holiday and birthday cards she received each year.

Jill and Marjorie’s travels weren’t over; they carried on for 4 more decades. They traveled extensively across the United States, often joined by other close friends. Favorite destinations – Key West, FL; Topsail Island, NC; and New York City - earned repeat visits. These trips were filled with relaxation, great food, cultural exploration, and laughter. One particularly meaningful journey was a trip to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, UT, where they showed their love for animals through volunteering. Dogs were a constant presence in Jill’s life, and her home was rarely without the companionship of one or more beloved pets.

Domestic travel eventually gave way to international exploration. Through trips with the Bucks County Choral Society and other groups, as well as carefully curated personal adventures, Jill experienced the cultures of Canada, Italy, Spain, Portugal, the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Russia, Brazil, and many other places. These travels fed her curiosity and her appreciation for art, music, food, and history.

Jill fell deeply in love with England and eventually moved to Belper. While there, she traded her canine companions for goats, cats, and birds, embraced village life, and formed cherished friendships—especially with Sarah and Sue. She delighted in driving her blue Citroën 2CV, working as an esthetician and massage therapist locally before being hired by Selfridges in London. Never one to sit still, Jill immersed herself in the community, became a National Trust member, and discovered a new passion for photography. She traveled extensively throughout England and Scotland, capturing the beauty she encountered through her lens.

After several years abroad, Jill returned to the United States and resettled in Lambertville. She quickly returned to work, this time in Doylestown, PA, bringing with her an expanded portfolio of specialized training. Reunited with friends, Jill and Marjorie purchased a townhome where they lived with Marjorie’s dogs, Woody and Maxie. Close friends Bob and Tony happily continued their roles as “uncles,” camera and gifts in hand, when Jill welcomed Shaun, her first Bedlington Terrier, into the family. Shaun thrived in agility training; Jill’s second Bedlington, Claire, was less enthusiastic but no less loved.

After a brief move to Lewes, Delaware, Jill decided it was finally time to retire. She moved to Clemson, South Carolina, to be near her son and daughter-in-law, Regina. Retirement suited her well. Jill transitioned seamlessly into volunteering with the Upstate Food Co-op and Helping Hands of Clemson. A voracious reader, she was active in book clubs and kept the Pickens County Library system well used. She was also an engaged member of the local Presbyterian church. Over ten years in Clemson, Jill took great joy in showing visiting friends—especially Marjorie—the beauty of the Upstate.

In 2023, Jill was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. What followed was a slow and difficult decline, eventually requiring more care than her family and friends could provide. She found comfort, support, and friendship at Vickery Parke Assisted Living in Central, SC. The staff’s dedication, professionalism and warm personalities made the transition easy for Jill.

Jill lived a full and vibrant life—one that included struggle and joy, hard work and adventure, laughter and deep friendship. Everyone should be so fortunate to live with such curiosity, passion, and connection. Heartfelt thanks go to all who were part of Jill’s remarkable journey.

If you would like to commemorate Jill’s life, please consider donating to Clemson Paw Partners, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, or your favorite animal shelter. Take time to create your own adventure, through travel or by reading a great book.