Richard Lewis Foss of Birmingham, Alabama passed away peacefully at home after a long illness on August 26, 2025. He was born on December 27, 1943 in Rome, Georgia, the son of Dudley Von Bretton Foss and Catherine Barker Foss. He grew up in Lindale, Georgia, a cotton mill town. Lewis enjoyed being an Eagle Scout and attending the Darlington School. He graduated from Davidson College where he played on their soccer team. Lewis met his wife, Evelyn on a blind date at Vanderbilt when he was in medical school. He completed a General Surgeon residency at the Cincinnati General Hospital.
After residency Lewis served two years in the Army. He was stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia and attained the rank of major. He started his General Surgery practice in Anniston in 1979, retiring in 2003. He was passionate about nature, family adventures, caring for his pets as well as hiking in the woods. Lewis and Evelyn visited all 50 states and travelled to other amazing destinations with their children and friends.
Lewis loved to learn and share knowledge. Teaching Sunday school at Good Shepherd and sharing computer skills with his friends were highlights for him. He cherished being a grandfather and the designated “fixer” of broken toys. Lewis was known for his DIY ability for repairing almost anything in the home or yard.
Lewis had a wide range of interests and hobbies: building bridges and trails in his backyard, canoeing, golfing, geo-caching, working puzzles, reading science fiction, especially Harry Potter.
Lewis leaves behind his wife of 57 years, Evelyn, his son, Dudley (Robby) of San Diego, California, daughter, Cathy Melvin (Michael) of Homewood, Alabama and three grandchildren, Spencer Lewis Foss, Lila Grace and Camille Grace Melvin.
We are profoundly thankful for the compassionate care provided to Lewis during his extended illness. We especially wish to acknowledge his devoted caregiver, Curstine “Peaches” Smith, whose support was a constant source of comfort and strength for our family.
A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.