John P. Foss

"When a loved one becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure." John Philip Foss was our treasure, cherished by his family, friends, fellow educators, former students, and community members. He will be remembered for his generosity, friendship, and unfailing kindness. His good humor, quick wit, and fun-loving nature made all our days brighter.

John Foss passed on December 5th, 2020 at the age of 72 after a valiant fight with cancer. He faced his diagnosis with openness, grace, and strong faith, the same way he approached life in general. He counted his blessings each and every day and shared those blessings freely. People mattered to John. He could strike up a conversation with anyone anywhere and make them feel welcome and at ease as if they were old friends.

His childhood years were spent in Needham, MA. He chose service as a career path receiving a BA in English from Nasson College and a Masters in Education from the University of New Hampshire. John spent thirty-eight years as a teacher and administrator touching the lives of his students and colleagues in Rye, Stratham, Weare, Candia, and Milford, New Hampshire. He had a heart for his students and a passion for his craft. Easily approachable, John developed a strong rapport with staff members, school families, and the community. Upon his retirement, a scholarship fund was established in his name for graduating Souhegan Valley Area High School students. Additionally, he shared his background in education as part of the adjunct faculty at Rivier University in Nashua.

In 1990, John married Judith Harriman, his dedicated partner in life and adventures. Together they formed countless friendships, set out on many cruises, traveled the world, and made their community more vibrant. John generously and whole-heartedly served his community for years as the Weare town moderator and as an active member in local Congregational Churches.

John was an accomplished amateur photographer. He was happiest capturing and sharing joy with his camera whether it be the beauty of his surroundings, or the countenances of loved ones, acquaintances, and strangers. John would be the first to offer to take a group photo for others that he encountered on trips or at his favorite breakfast establishments. He was in the business of making others smile.

It will be hard for our family to imagine the holidays without John's wit, huge smile, and even his silly hats; an original one worn proudly for each holiday. Every Christmas we looked forward to receiving a calendar containing photos of his latest travels with a touching personalized note and inspirational words to take us into the coming year. We all have a drawerful of these calendars tucked away, recognizing their importance at the time, yet now clearly knowing their value as a memory of a remarkable man and a life well-lived.

John is predeceased by his parents Elizabeth and Philip Foss and his sister Elizabeth Ann Foss Carey. In addition to his devoted wife Judith, he is loved by his brother David Foss, several nieces and nephews, and numerous family members and friends.

Plans for a celebration of John's life will be announced at a later date.

Should friends desire, memorial contributions may be sent to a charity or cause that speaks to your heart. For more information or to sign an online guestbook please visit www.frenchandrising.com