Jan Hinson Foss

Jan Hinson Foss, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, left this world as gracefully as she lived in it on September 29, 2024, in her hometown of Dothan, Alabama. Born on June 10, 1936, in the same beloved town, Jan's life was a testament to love, family, and the beauty of the Southern spirit.

Jan's journey began as a true Southern Belle, with her early years spent in the heart of Defuniak Springs, Florida. It was here that she blossomed into a young woman of grace and beauty, capturing hearts as Miss Walton County. She carried this poise throughout her life, from the dance floor where she moved with joy, to the quiet moments spent with a paintbrush or a coloring book in hand.

Jan's academic pursuits took her to Florida State University, where she not only earned a bachelor's degree in Interior Design but also left a legacy of sisterhood as a Chi Omega. Her gentle, generous, and selfless nature was evident in her commitment to her family, her involvement in the Dothan's Women Medical Auxiliary League, and in every interaction, she had with those around her.

Her love story with Arnold Y. Foss M.D., her devoted husband of 67 years, began at Bainbridge Airforce Base. Together, they navigated Arnold's military service and his subsequent medical career, participating in grand parties and becoming pillars of their community. As Arne practiced medicine, Jan made their house a home, claiming it was the most fulfilling thing she ever did. Their partnership was blessed with four children: Arne M. Foss, Ken Foss (Diane), Karla Reilly (Kevin), and Erik Foss (Evin), who in turn gave her the joy of 12 grandchildren (Hannah, Brittany, Sara, Tyler, Cameron, Cecilia, Olivia, Michael, Patrick, Maya, Morgaine, and William) and one great-grandchild (Nora). Family was the axis upon which Jan's world spun, and she was a beacon of patience and love for each and every one of them.

The light of Jan’s love will be carried forward not only by her husband and children but also her sister, Karen Parker (Fred), and a host of loving nieces, family, and friends. The family also cherishes the compassionate care provided by the team at Joy Keepers, who became like family as they cared for Jan in her final days.

Over the years, Jan filled her days with tennis, volunteering, Jazzercise, arts, crafts, and the joy of being late to bed and late to rise. She found peace at the family beach home in Inlet Beach, Florida, as well as at the lake cabin in Green Pond, New Jersey, to be with family and friends.

Jan expressed herself creatively throughout her life. With her friend Connie, she opened and operated a store in Dothan, where they sold their beautiful creations ranging from hand painted items to jewelry. In her retirement years, she enjoyed collaborating with Arne, he carving whimsical figures and houses, she bringing them to life with her painting. Their artwork was sold and gifted throughout the area and remain cherished objects by many. In her later years, when painting was no longer possible, she channeled her creativity through coloring with pencils, creating beloved artwork for her family.

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away," a sentiment famously expressed by Maya Angelou, encapsulates the essence of Jan's journey on this earth. Jan lived a life rich with such moments, living a life of no regrets, and left behind a legacy of love. Her presence was a comforting constant, her advice and ear always available to others. She often shared that her dream had always been to be a mother — a dream she realized fully and with boundless love.

As we say goodbye to Jan, we celebrate the beauty and generosity she bestowed upon the world. Her spirit, forever patient and loving, will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know her. Jan Hinson Foss was, and always will be, the heart of her family and a cherished soul whose memory will be held close, today and always.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604