Deborah Kay Foster

Deborah Patton Foster, 66, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away on January 10, 2024. She was known by her family and friends as “Debbie.” Debbie was born on July 11, 1957 in Gravette, AR to Bob and Glenda Patton. She graduated from Decatur High School in 1975 and then attended Westark College in Fort Smith. It was in Fort Smith that she met her beloved husband John. They married on June 6, 1981 and later had one daughter, Whitney.

Debbie worked many jobs in healthcare, starting at United Blood Services as a phlebotomist in the 80s. She later began working at Holt-Krock Pediatric Clinic in the 90s and then Cooper Clinic in the 00s where she continued to be a familiar and friendly face, among other jobs over the years. She was also a member of the Fort Smith Junior Chamber Jaycees where she began making friendly connections throughout the community. Debbie was an avid quilter and enjoyed all things crafting. She regularly attended craft fairs with her friends and daughter. Debbie was patriotic, remaining informed, ready, and excited to exercise her right to vote. She was an active and loved member of First Christian Church, where she taught children’s Sunday school classes for many years. Having grown up on farms, Debbie was an animal lover, but had a soft spot for cats. She followed sports closely, especially Razorback sports. Debbie was known for her quick wit, her sense of humor, and her boisterous laugh.

Debbie was extremely family oriented and was an active mother to her daughter. She made countless garments for Whitney starting from her birth into her young adulthood, from beautifully smocked dresses to dance and halloween costumes. Debbie was Whitney’s biggest cheerleader. She loved being on the sidelines during Whitney’s sports games and in the audience for her dance and orchestra performances. Debbie and John made holidays and other occasions extra special and meaningful. Debbie was a cherished sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and friend who will be missed by so many.

Debbie was welcomed to Heaven as Gigi, by her 18 month old grandson, Warren John Upchurch, who went to Heaven only 40 days prior. On earth, Debbie conquered Early-Onset Alzheimer’s and Warren conquered Childhood Cancer. In Heaven, they embrace tightly and rejoice that they are both healed and will spend eternity in each other’s arms.

She was also welcomed to Heaven by her parents Bob and Glenda Patton; father-in-law James Foster; and sister-in-law Tammy Evans Patton.

Debbie is survived by her husband John Foster; daughter and son-in-law Whitney and Patrick Upchurch and their child due July 2024; brothers Bill Patton and Bryan (Cindy) Patton; sister-in-law Jane (John) Stauffer; nieces Kelli (Clay) Gordon, Tracie (Joe) Nutter, and Mindy (Justin) Hunthrop; nephews Brad (Meighan) Patton, Blake (Tammy) Patton, and Sean (Kelsie) Patton; and many great nieces and nephews.

The Foster and Upchurch families would like to say a special thank you to Methodist Village Senior Care and Heart of Hospice of Fort Smith.

Memorial Service officiated by Rev. Dr. Ellis Robinson will be Friday January 19, at 2:00 pm at Edwards Funeral Home in Fort Smith, AR. Interment will be at Roselawn Cemetery. The family requests that you wear a touch of red, Debbie’s favorite color. Pallbearers will be Patrick Upchurch, Clay Gordon, Joe Nutter, Blake Patton, Sean Patton, and Justin Hunthrop.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Arkansas Children's Hospital to honor Debbie and her grandson Warren. Please select “Pediatric Cancer Research” from the dropdown box on the hospital donation page.