Mary Foster White Obituary (1924 - 2023)

We are saddened to announce the passing of Mary Foster White, on October 22, 2023. Born on March 24, 1924, in Tampa, Florida to Cecilia Hussey Perry and Goebel Perry, Mary Foster graced the world with her charming, intelligent, loving spirit for 99 years. Mary Foster was a woman of determination and grit. After her youth in Florida, where she was surrounded by a loving extended family, she left to go to nursing school in Washington, DC. She served as a member of the U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps from 1943-1946, learning her life-long profession of nursing in the midst of WW II. Her passion for healthcare led her to Rockville Hospital in Connecticut, where she worked for many years, and she retired as supervisor of maternity care. She believed strongly in helping mothers and babies have the best possible start in life together. In pursuit of a dream, Mary Foster earned her Bachelor's degree in Nursing at the age of 62. Mary Foster found much joy in everyday life. Whether it was immersing herself in a captivating book or poem, cooking a delicious meal, making a cup of tea in the good china cups, or solving a challenging crossword puzzle, she embraced each moment with enthusiasm, and no one appreciated a nice candlelight dinner, a bloody Caesar or a well-wrapped package more than she did. Mary Foster loved language and used it beautifully, with impeccable timing and wit. She was also a lifelong learner, always interested in studying something new. She was a devoted wife to Donald White, beginning married life on September 2, 1947. Her love extended to her children, Dennis (Judith) White, Melissa (Richard) Murray, and Priscilla (Douglas) D'Alessio, who survive her, along with 6 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald, beloved mother-in-law, Ruth, and granddaughter, Claire, as well as her parents, sister, Cecilia, and brothers, Louis and Jimmy. We hope that Mary Foster will be remembered for her commitment to the welfare of others, and her contagious zest for life. Her family would like to thank the staff at Bethany Village in Horseheads, NY for the loving care and kindness she received during her stay there. Per her request, there will be no services. Memorial donations may be made to the Food Bank of the Southern Tier or Meals on Wheels, both of which were important to Mary Foster. Mary's family has entrusted her care to Haughey Funeral Home, Inc. We invite you to share your treasured memories and photos of Mary Foster on her memorial page at www.haugheyfuneralhome.com. Together, we can celebrate and honor the remarkable journey of this extraordinary woman.