Mary A. Fosher, 86, of Surry, NH, died at Langdon Place of Keene, NH, on April 9, 2024, following a gradual decline in health.

She was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Fred Fosher, who died in 2017, and her siblings, Joe, Bill, and Dorothy. She leaves her son, Bill Fosher; daughter-in-law, Lynn Zimmerman; daughter, Kerry Fosher; two grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

She was born on June 23, 1937, in Evanston, IL, the daughter of Dorothy and William Oakey. She was raised mainly in Lockhaven, NH, at Crystal Lake. She graduated from Keene Teacher’s College in 1961 and taught at Lebanon High School. She married Fred in 1961 and they moved to Surry, NH in 1968. For a time, she worked as a teacher’s aide at Surry Elementary School. After returning to college to renew her teacher certification at Keene State College, she taught third grade at Mt. Caesar Elementary School in Swanzey, NH and first and second grade at Surry Elementary School in Surry, NH. A strong advocate for helping children learn to enjoy writing and reading, she volunteered in many special programs and initiatives focused on these topics. After retiring, she volunteered in the community, efforts recognized when she and Fred were named Surry’s Citizens of the Year. She served as the assistant librarian for the Reed Free Library in Surry, NH and was a member of the Surry Conservation Committee. She also was an active member of the Surry Historical Committee, helping research and develop the town history for publication and giving tours.

Mary loved reading and, even in her final weeks, it was rare to find her without a book in her hand. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that people consider making a memorial contribution to the Reed Free Library at 8 Village Rd, Surry, NH 03431. There are no calling hours and the memorial service will be private. 

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