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104th birthday celebrations for Isobel Foster in Coleraine

104th birthday celebrations for Isobel Foster in Coleraine

Wed, February 22, 2017

One of Coleraine’s oldest residents has reached the magnificent age of 104.

Isobel Foster’s special day was marked with low-key celebrations by her friends and staff at Killowen House in Coleraine where she has been a resident since 2002.

Along with many cards and good wishes, she also enjoyed a visit from The Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Maura Hickey.

Speaking afterwards, the Mayor said: “It was an absolute privilege for me to be a part of Isobel’s very special birthday celebrations, and hear her share her memories of her fascinating life. She certainly is an inspiration to us all – a beautiful lady with such style and perfectly painted pink fingernails. The care she receives from the staff at Killowen House was clear to see during my time there. Older people are an important part of our society, and it is only right that we celebrate and recognise milestones like this. I wish Isobel good health and further contentment as she celebrates this happy day.”

Born in 1913, Isobel grew up in Ballyrashane, just outside Coleraine.

She married Minister Rev James Foster, and his work as a Chaplain with the Mission to Seafarers took them to both South Africa and Argentina.

They were married for over 27 years when he died aged just 53.

Isobel said that while she has had some illnesses, she simply ‘carries on’ with life.

She continues to enjoy writing letters, corresponding with her pen pals using flawlessly formed hand-writing.

And when it comes to birthday presents she said simply: “I have everything I need.”

Isobel Foster, pictured on her 104th birthday,  enjoys a visit from the Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, Alderman Maura Hickey, to mark the very special occasion. The Mayor is holding a medal sent as a birthday gift to Isobel from the President of Ireland.


A letter beautifully hand-written by Isobel Foster - the 104 year old corresponds regularly with friends and pen pals.