Martha Foster, 94, of Mount Vernon, Illinois passed away at 3:58 P.M. April 28, 2019 at SSM Health Good Samaritan Hospital in Mount Vernon. She was born June 23, 1924 in Jefferson County, Illinois to the late Harry M. and Mary (Farthing) Swift. She first married Clarence Brickey and he preceded her in death.  She later married George Paul Foster in 1955 and he preceded her in death in November of 1997.

Martha is survived by her son, Charles Ross Brickey and wife, Anne of Nashville, Illinois; daughter-in-law, Sue Brickey Funk; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.

In addition to her parents and two husbands, Mrs. Foster was preceded in death by her son, John Howard Brickey; infant son, Michael Foster; and sister, Helen Swift Myers.

Martha retired after twenty years as secretary, treasurer, and manager of Jefferson County Mutual Fire Insurance Company.  She also served as a director for several years, prior to her retirement.  She was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church of Mount Vernon, Old Goshen Train Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Jefferson County Genealogy Society where she served as director for several years and helped produce the Society’s quarterly publication for a number of years.  She also served as trustee of the Pioneer Pleasant Grove Cemetery.  Mrs. Foster authored two genealogical books; one, a history of Pleasant Grove Church and Cemetery and the other concerning the descendants of Reuben Gunn, a genealogical line of her husband’s.  Her interests also lay in the writing of poetry, short stories, and articles; painting; and keeping in touch with friends through email.  She regarded each day as a blessing and cherished her family and friends.

A Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. to 12:45 P.M. Thursday, May 2, 2019 at Hughey Funeral Home in Mount Vernon. A Graveside Service will be held at 1:00 P.M. Thursday, May 2, 2019 at Oakwood Cemetery in Mount Vernon with Reverend Jim Peak Officiating.  Interment will follow. Memorials may be made to the Wesley United Methodist Church or Jefferson County Historical Society.

Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.