Donald Allen Foster

Donald Allen “Don” Foster, age 91, of Dickson, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2026, in Dickson, Tennessee.

Don was born on March 28, 1935, and throughout his life he was known for his warm personality, love of people, and the many stories he shared from a life well lived. A lifelong member of Central Church of Christ, Don’s faith remained an important part of his life for many years.

He retired as a photographer for the Nashville Banner, a career that brought him countless memorable experiences and stories he loved to tell. Don often shared memories of photographing well-known figures such as Bob Hope, John Wayne, Bear Bryant, Minnie Pearl and Elvis Presley, among many others. One of his favorite stories was about riding with the Blue Angels, where the pilot jokingly warned him to behave or risk being ejected from the aircraft.

In addition to his photography career, Don faithfully served families in the community for more than 12 years as a dedicated funeral assistant with Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services. He truly loved helping families during difficult times and never met a stranger, always enjoying visiting and talking with people wherever he went. His compassionate heart and friendly nature made a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Don was a dedicated member of the Charlotte Lions Club for nearly 50 years and was also a proud member of the National Photographers Association. He enjoyed the friendships he made through the years and treasured every opportunity to share his experiences and memories with others.

Don will be remembered for his quick wit, storytelling ability, dedication to his work, servant’s heart, and the many lives he touched throughout his long and meaningful life.

Visitation: will be on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 4 – 8 PM, and will continue on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 11:00 AM – until time of services.

Funeral Service: for Don Foster will be conducted at 1:00 pm on Wednesday May 13, 2026, from the chapel of Spann Funeral Home with Bro. Mike Richardson officiating.

Interment: Union Cemetery

Memorials may be made to the Charlotte Lions Club.

Survived by:

Wife of 70 years:

Verna Spann Foster of Dickson, TN

Son:

Wesley Foster (Annette) of Dickson, TN

Daughter:

Renee Scott (Joey) of Charlotte, TN

Brother:

Billy Foster (Wilma) of River Watch, TN

Sister:

Patsy Caldwell of Charlotte, TN

7 Grandchildren: Jedidiah, Jeremiah, Jay, Brock, Holden, Hayden and Heath

10 Great Grandchildren

Preceded in death by: 

Parents: George & Lottie Irene Allen Foster 

3 Sisters: Elizabeth Williams, Louise Green, Wilma “Tess” Breeden

Arrangements entrusted to Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services, located in Dickson, Tennessee.

Spann Funeral Home serves families throughout Dickson County including Dickson, Charlotte, Burns, White Bluff, Fairview, Bon Aqua, Lyles, and Cumberland Furnace, as well as other surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.