Carol L. Foster

Carol Lyn Foster, 67, of Port Orange, Florida, formerly of Gibsonburg, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on January 19, 2026, in a tragic house fire. Born on October 6, 1958, in Gibsonburg, she was the beloved daughter of Donald and Ruth Bettenbrock and the third of five children.

From a young age, Carol embodied hard work, creativity, and resourcefulness. She helped tend the family garden, canned vegetables with her mother, and learned to prepare delicious meals on even the tightest budget. A proud member of Gibsonburg High School's Class of 1977, she went on to work in food service, manufacturing, and quality control before discovering her true passion for business. Carol later studied Business and Accounting at Terra Community College and used that knowledge to build her own company, Modern Management Solutions, in Ravenna, Ohio. She found great joy in mentoring young entrepreneurs, always encouraging others to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.

Carol's life was forever changed when she met the love of her life, Tom Foster, in Twinsburg. She often joked that she wished she could clone him so her friends could experience the same kind of love she had found. Their life together was filled with devotion, laughter, and partnership. After retiring to Florida, they spent their days enjoying the sunshine, boating, and exploring thrift stores. When Tom passed into eternal life on May 12, 2023, Carol's world shifted, and she found comfort in Bella, their cherished golden doodle. Tragically, Bella also perished in the fire that claimed Carol's life.

Carol is survived by her daughter, Jessica Renee (Matthew) Oravetz of Port Orange, with whom she shared countless adventures and treasured memories. Though she excelled as a businesswoman, cook, baker, and wreathmaker, her greatest joy came from being "Nana." She adored her grandchildren - Madisyn, Tyler, and Emily - and proudly shared stories about them with anyone who would listen. Whether crafting, playing games, fishing on the boat, or simply enjoying time together, Carol cherished every moment spent with them.

A woman of deep faith, Carol was an active member of First English Lutheran Church in Gibsonburg. She was especially grateful to have attended Christmas Eve service this past year with her church family.

Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Tom; her parents, Donald and Ruth; and her sister, Barb (Sam) Halfhill. She is survived by her siblings, Tom (Phyllis) Bettenbrock, Kathy (John) Hatcher, Donna (Rob) Schuett, along with many friends, neighbors, colleagues and loved ones who will miss her every day.

Carol's warmth, generosity, and unwavering love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A private service was held on February 21, 2026 at First English Church in Gibsonburg with Pastor Dean Stoner presiding.

Carol will be laid to rest in the Atlantic Ocean along with her beloved husband, Tom, and faithful companion, Bella, at a later date.