Alla Foss

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Alla Foss (Hawrilenko) on June 19, 2025, at the age of 91.

Alla was born in Chelsea and, shortly after, traveled with her family back to Ukraine, where they lived until she was four years old. She later returned to the United States, where she built a rich and meaningful life grounded in love, faith, and service to others. She earned both a Bachelor's Degree and a Master's Degree in Education from Boston University, and dedicated her career to teaching English at Holbrook High School, Sacred Heart High School in Weymouth, and St. Clement High School in Somerville. She also served as a substitute teacher in the Hingham Public Schools, continuing to inspire students with her compassion, dedication, and wisdom.

Alla was a gifted artist who loved knitting, crafting, and expressing herself creatively. She was fluent in Russian, both spoken and written, and had a deep appreciation for culture, language, and beauty in all its forms.

She was married to her beloved husband, James Foss, Jr., for 61 years, sharing a life full of love, faith, and family. He preceded her in death, along with their grandson, Jacob Foss, and her sister, Helene Lofgren.

More than anything, Alla was a devoted mother, grandmother, and caregiver. She was always attuned to the needs of others and gave of herself generously and without hesitation. Her selflessness, warmth, and boundless love were felt by everyone lucky enough to know her. She especially cherished her three grandchildren, who brought immense joy to her life.

She is survived by her daughter, Alexandra Cavanaugh, and her husband, Sean Cavanaugh, of Hingham, and her son, James Foss of Hanson. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Joseph Cavanaugh and Casey Cavanaugh. Alla is further survived by her brother, Leonard Hawrilenko, and his wife, Alice Hawrilenko, along with their son, her nephew, Matthew Hawrilenko and his family.

Alla had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved German Shepherd, Layla. She found peace in nature, loved working in her garden, and enjoyed spending time at the family home in Vermont. She was a wonderful cook and loved nothing more than feeding and nurturing those around her. No one ever left her home hungry — or without feeling loved.

Alla carried a quiet but unwavering faith throughout her life — a light that shaped how she loved, gave, and cared for everyone around her.

Alla Foss will be remembered for her enormous heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved. She was a light in this world and will be deeply missed.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Saturday 6/28/2025 from 11 AM-1 PM in the Pyne Keohane Funeral Home, 21 Emerald St. (off Central St.), HINGHAM followed by a funeral home service at 1 PM. Burial in St. Paul’s Cemetery, Hingham. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Alla may be made to The Scituate Animal Shelter, 780 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Scituate, MA 02066.