Mary Kate Foster

Mary Kate (Burkhart) Foster - age 88, of Knoxville, TN, passed away on November 13, 2025.
She was born in Knoxville, TN on February 8, 1937, to Paris Leo and Lillian Clemmons Burkhart. She grew up in the Ritta community and was a member of Union Baptist Church for many years. Most recently, she was a member of Faithway Missionary Baptist Church. She graduated from Gibbs High School and worked at Standard Knitting Mills until her retirement.
Mary Kate was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Foster; son, Michael Foster; daughter, Patti Hodge; brothers, Kenneth Burkhart, Shannon Burkhart, and John Burkhart; and sisters, Marjorie Burkhart and Mona Walker.
She is survived by her son, John (Andrea) Foster; daughters, Susan (Greg) Coker and Sheila (John) Thigpen; brothers, David (Wanda) Burkhart and Robert Burkhart; sister, Travis Beeler; as well as several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to The Courtyards Senior Living for the love and excellent care given to their mother in her last two years of life.
The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at Bridges Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will follow at 3:00 PM, with Pastor Danny Scates officiating. Family and friends will meet at 10:00 AM on Monday at Bridges Funeral Home to go in procession to Clear Springs Baptist Church Cemetery, 3709 Clear Springs Rd, Mascot, TN 37806 for an 11:00 AM Graveside Service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Meals on Wheels in Mary Kate's honor.
Arrangements by Bridges Funeral Home, 5430 Rutledge Pike, Knoxville, TN 37924. www.bridgesfuneralhome.com