Janice Foster

Janice “Jan” Foster of Chandler, Arizona died December 12^th, 2023 after complications from pneumonia.  Jan suffered a stroke in November, 2021.  She fought hard to recover and regain her independence and never gave up. Her mind longed to do all the things she loved, travel; dinner with friends and family; crocheting; volunteering and pet sitting.  Unfortunately, her body would not cooperate, but she made the best out of her situation.  We will miss our beautiful, caring, and loving mom, but are relieved she is free of suffering and free of the limitations of her physical body.

She was born September 20^th, 1935 in Springfield, Illinois to Elmer and Pauline Wainwright.  She graduated from Virden High School in 1953  and retired from bookkeeping after raising her children.  

Jan is preceded in death by her parents, sisters -JoAnne Rothe and Cheryl Gazda along with the father of her children, James Copelin.  Also preceded in death by the love of her life, Stephen Foster, whom she longed to be reunited with.

She was mother to Curt Copelin of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Lisa Copelin Tullos (Mark) of New Lenox, Illinois and Denise Copelin Carlson (Allen) of Chandler, Arizona.   She leaves behind 4 grandchildren Christopher Copelin, Madison Tullos, Logan Talkington and Caden Carlson; along with 2 great-grandchildren-Colton and Taylor Copelin and many others who knew her as “Grandma Jan” in Arizona.   She also left behind many nieces and nephews, including one very special niece-Dianne Smith who all knew her as Aunt Jan.

She loved all of us and truly enjoyed following everyone’s lives whether in person, by phone; snail mail or Facebook.   It brought her joy to see others thriving.  Regardless of her own health challenges, mom always thought of others first and always remained positive. 

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.  Any donations may be submitted to American Heart Association.