In Loving Memory of Carmen LaJean Adams

Carmen LaJean Adams, born October 25, 1952, in South Bend, Indiana, to Roland and Ethel Matthews, passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on February 6, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents.

Carmen was a devoted mother to her two daughters, Christina Adams-Harris and Kimberly Adams, and a proud grandmother to Calei and Kyarah. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Arthur Harris, as well as her siblings, Roland Matthews and Angela Perry. She also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will cherish her memory.

She graduated from Xenia High School in 1970 and went on to attend Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, earning her degree in 1974. In 1981, Carmen later earned her Master’s degree in Psychology from United States International University, further strengthening her commitment to education and understanding others.

In 1985, Carmen proudly became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she remained a dedicated and cherished Soror, embodying the organization’s values of service, sisterhood, and scholarship throughout her life.

Carmen dedicated more than 32 years to elementary education, teaching at Mason Elementary School in San Diego, California, and Goldfarb Elementary School in Las Vegas, Nevada, before retiring. She was deeply passionate about education, culture, and empowering young minds.

One of her proudest accomplishments was creating the Humanities Program at Mason Elementary, where she taught Black history and cultural awareness. She organized large school events celebrating heritage, unity, and education, leaving a lasting impact on students, families, and the community.

Carmen will be remembered for her kindness, wisdom, dedication to family, and unwavering commitment to education. Her legacy lives on through her family, the many students she inspired, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

To honor Carmen, the family invites memorial plants or floral arrangements to be ordered through:

https://thegreennookcollectio…

 Your thoughtful support is deeply appreciated during this time.

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