Shirley Mae Patrick Foste 1931 - 2026 BHS Class of 1949

[Tom Estes]

Shirley Mae Patrick Foster, 94, affectionately known as Shirley Mae and to a few as "Squirrely," joined our Lord on February 17, 2026, at her residence in Houston, Texas. Shirley was born in Bishop, Texas, at her grandparents' home on December 19, 1931.

She spent her youth on the "Home Place" in Bishop with her parents and brother, D.W. Patrick. An active student, she was a twirler and played the French horn in the band. She was that sweet, beautiful teenager remembered for her alluring blue eyes. After high school, she attended Texas A&I University, earning a bachelor's degree in education. On January 14, 1953, she married her kindergarten sweetheart, William Edward "Bill Ed" Foster, in Bishop. While moving around Texas during Bill Ed's military service and education, Shirley taught in local elementary schools. Once they settled in Kingsville for his medical practice, Shirley became a dedicated stay-at-home mom. They were active members of First Christian Church until its closing and their subsequent move to Houston.

Shirley was a tireless supporter of her family, cheering on her children, Wayne and Dianne, in all their athletic and personal pursuits. She was an active "Glover Park Mom," an avid fan of the Texas A&I Javelinas, and a devoted member of the Kingsville Garden Club, the Women's Club, various PTAs, and the Kingsville Women's Bowling Association. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill Ed Foster; her parents, Douglas Winford Patrick and Rena Mae Patrick Montgomery Davis; her brother, D.W. Patrick; and her son, Wayne Foster.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Dianne Foster and Scott Gilbert; her grandson, Jay Foster and Keeli Gilbert; and her daughter by heart, Joann Elliott Wright. She also leaves behind Wayne's children: Tiffany and Blu Dornan, and Trishia and Rusty Aucoin; great-grandsons USMC Cpl Caleb C. and Jacob Aucoin, and Colton James; Amy Garza and grandchildren Makayla, Cody, Makenzie, Kyle, and Casey; and William Wayne and Ayshia Foster. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Philip's United Methodist Church, 5501 Beechnut St, Houston, Texas 77096, followed by a Mexican Fiesta for friends and family. In lieu of flowers, please share Shirley's charitable soul by making a contribution to Houston Hospice in her honor - 1905 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, Texas 77030 or www.houstonhospice.org/donate

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