Adileen LeClare Donaldson Foster (Bebe)

Adileen LeClare Donaldson Foster (Bebe), age 97, of Foley, died peacefully at her home on November 20, 2020. Bebe was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Baxter and Huey Ernest Donaldson; her husband of 57 years, Dr. John Edward Foster; and her daughter, Dr. Jean Suzanne Foster Bolton. She is survived by her son, J. Don Foster (Kathy) of Mobile, and daughter, Dr. Patricia Ann Foster (David) of Iowa City, Iowa; 5 grandchildren, Dr. Meredith Foster Herlong (Warren), Harlan Foster (Marti), Dr. Kate Bolton Bonnici (Dan), Dr. Will Bolton (Ali), and Jeb Bolton (Anna); and 12 great-grandchildren. Bebe was one of 13 children and is survived by 3 sisters, Audrey Pfeifer, Elouise Hays, and Mary Jo Carr, and by 2 brothers, William Donaldson and Jim Donaldson. Bebe was born on December 15, 1922, in Maben, AL. After graduating as valedictorian of West Jefferson High School in 1939, Bebe entered the University of Alabama at age 16 and earned degrees in nutrition and education. There, she was chosen to be a member of the honor society Phi Upsilon Omicron. After graduating, Bebe practiced dietetics at Baptist Hospital in New Orleans and at City Hospital in Mobile. Her favorite role was teaching science at Foley High School, where she taught for 16 years. An extraordinary teacher and mentor, she was named Teacher of the Year in 1972 and University of Alabama Distinguished Alumna in 1977. Foley’s chapter of the National Honor Society is named for her. In addition to teaching, Bebe dedicated herself to the American Field Service, South Baldwin Hospital Auxiliary, Performing Arts Association, Foley United Methodist Church and, later, Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church. She served as National Vice President for the University of Alabama Alumni Association. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, she was forever devoted to her family and community, reaching out to those in need of encouragement and love. She will be deeply missed. A private family memorial service was held at Pine Rest Cemetery, Foley, AL on Tuesday, November 24. A Celebration of Life service will be announced in the coming months.