Nancy Lynne Forster

Nancy Lynne Forster, 87, passed away peacefully, surrounded by love, at Serenity House in Santa Barbara.

Nancy was born in Oakland, California and was adopted by a loving family in Stockton, California where she grew up. During her school years she became active in 4-H and her favorite project was raising pigs. She loved the outdoors and helping out on the family ranch.

Nancy attended Chico State and was an Elementary school teacher in Stockton. She became interested in theater and enjoyed performing in local plays; musicals were her favorite. She had a beautiful voice and continued to sing in her church choir through the years. During this time, she met her husband, Keith. They were happily married for 47 years. They lived for a time in San Diego and Bakersfield but ultimately chose Santa Barbara as their permanent home. Nancy was active in her family’s business in Stockton and Humboldt County. She regularly volunteered at Transition House in Santa Barbara and supported various local charities. She was an active member of St Anthony’s church community as well.

Nancy started traveling the world at the age of 17 and continued her love of travel throughout her life. She enjoyed trips to the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and Asia with her husband and friends.

Nancy was a cat lover and raised many fur babies over the years. We fondly remember Lacy, Dodger, Blackie, Ruby and Reuben.

In 1995, Nancy was blessed to have been united with her biological sister after finding her with assistance from a genealogical service. Nancy found so much happiness in adding to her family and learning about her ancestry. She and her sister, June, took trips and spent a lot of time sharing stories, telling jokes, and talking politics.

In her later years, Nancy moved to Samarkand, where she enjoyed meeting new friends, going to the gym, attending lectures and strolling the grounds with her great niece and children. She became part of a group of women all named Nancy. There were 11 in total and she was #4!

Nancy will be remembered for her calm and peaceful presence, a sharp mind and wit to match, generous and kind nature, being a good listener and a loyal and loving friend. Her sweet smile and warm hugs will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her niece Lisa Gill and family, sister June Mowles and family, and was a devoted aunt, great- aunt and great-great aunt. She was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Leona Wagner, husband Keith Forster and brother Charles Wagner.

Memorial donations can be made to Serenity House 930 Miramonte Dr. SB 93109 or The Santa Barbara Botanical Gardens 1212 Mission Canyon Rd SB 93105.