Karen Brown Foster, or “Oogie” as close ones affectionately called her, was definitely a rising star. She was not only bright, but she also brightened the lives of all who knew her. She was the epitome of a devoted wife, loving mother, wonderful daughter, caring sister, generous aunt, and loyal friend. If you translate the name “Karen”, it could only mean “pure love” because that’s who she was and what she embodied. Karen was the seventh child of John W. and Linda M. Brown. Karen and her younger sister, Darlene were members of the “second set”. They came along in life several years after the “first set" of older siblings: Agnes, Sadie, Pete, Trisha, Buddy and B.B.
Karen showed early in life that she was going to take a unique journey. After graduating from Theodore Roosevelt High School on June 19, 1980, Karen broke through doors and created opportunities for herself by seeking and winning the Frederick Douglas Scholarship. She attended and graduated from American University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree, cum laude, in Computer Science. Following graduation, Karen was employed by Control Data Corporation as a system analyst before joining the Department of Commerce, National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration.
Karen met the love of her life, Samuel Foster, Jr. They formed an inseparable spiritual bond that led to their marriage October 24, 1994. They were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Samira, who was born three years later.
Karen was a beautiful performer. She loved to sing and share her enchanting voice with others. She was enthralled by the opportunity to perform at the Kennedy Center because it gave her the opportunity to showcase her talents and put into practice on the big stage what she learned as a child while performing in neighborhood talent shows. She also performed at the Trump Plaza in Atlantic City (NJ); The Firenza in Springfield (VA), Entertainers Club Lounge in Forestville (MD), Mr. Henry’s in Washington (DC), and at numerous weddings and special occasions.
Karen succumbed to cancer on December 3, 2003, when the good Lord called one of his angels home to be closer to him. Karen is survived by her husband, Samuel and beautiful daughter, Samira; her mother, Linda M. Brown; five sisters, Agnes Robinson, Sadie Fields, Patricia Washington, Beatrice Brown, and Darlene Lee; two brothers, John L. Brown and Glenda Foster; two brothers-in-law, Larry Lee and Eric Foster; parents-in-law Samuel Foster and Carrie Mae Foster; and a host of nieces, nephews and various other relatives, as well as a wealth of friends.
The Foster family has asked that anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in the name of Karen Brown Foster send a check directly to the Lombardi Cancer Center, 3970 Reservoir Rd, N.W., Research Building, Suite E501, Washington, D.C. 20007.
The Foster family greatly appreciates the outpouring of love and support for Karen.