With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ardella Ann (Swaim) Foster, affectionately known as Della, who left us peacefully on Monday, July 13, 2026, just a day after her 90th birthday. She was born on July 12, 1936, in Tangier, to the late Ralph J. Sr and Callie May (Jackson) Swaim.
Della graduated from Tangier High School and went on to embrace her true calling as a devoted homemaker. On April 21, 1961, she married the love of her life, Merrill B. Foster. Together they built a warm and loving home until Merrill’s passing on Dec. 25, 1996.
A wonderful mother, Della dedicated her life to her family. She took immense joy in their lives, frequently attending her grandchildren’s events and celebrating their accomplishments. Her passion for family was matched only by her love for the great outdoors; she found solace in drives through State Parks and taking family vacations.
Della was an avid sports fan, proudly cheering for IU and the Chicago Cubs. She often shared her love for music, particularly enjoying the sounds of the Highway 341 band, which brought her so much joy. She was a member of the Cayuga Christian Church.
She is survived by her three children, Michael Foster of Cayuga, Cheryl (Donald) Duez of Georgetown, Illinois and Michele “Shelly” (Bobby) Harrison of Westfield; four grandchildren, Robert (Megan) Harrison, Hillary (Blaine) Timonera, Jacob (Natalie) Harrison and Cade Duez; seven great-grandchildren, Brooks, Seger, Wesley, Addison, Urban, Grady and Cooper; sister Evelyn Randolph; special neighbors, Charlie and Brenda Craft; and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; four sisters, Gladys Keller, May Swaim, Barbara Tryon and Mona Thompson; and four brothers, Don, Ralph Jr., Ray and Glen Swaim.
Visitation will be 3-6 p.m. Sunday, July 19 at Sanders Funeral Care, 203 S. First St., Kingman. The funeral service will be at the funeral home at 11 a.m. Monday, July 20, with Pastor Steve Vitaniemi officiating. Burial will follow at Silver Island Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given in her memory to Gentiva Hospice, 4134 S. Seventh St., Terre Haute, IN 47802 or Amedisys Home Health Care, 131 S. Fourth Street #120, Terre Haute, IN 47807.
Share memories and condolences online at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.
