Cathy Adams, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully at Evergreen Hospice House in Albany, Oregon, on September 21st, 2024, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. In her final days, she was surrounded by family and friends.

Born and raised in northern California, Cathy (née Jett) spent her youth in Alturas and later Eureka, where her father served as Administrator of the Humboldt County Hospital. It was at a Humboldt State College dance in the spring of 1967 that she met Tom Adams, and the two were married the following spring in Eureka. In the early years of their marriage, they moved frequently as Tom pursued graduate studies and launched an academic career in forest science.

The family relocated to the Corvallis area in 1978, initially settling in Philomath, where Cathy quickly made lasting friendships with others raising young families. In 1999, they moved to Corvallis, though Cathy continued to visit Philomath on weekends for several years, where she sang in the Catholic Mission Choir.

A cherished memory in Cathy's life was the sabbatical year of 1985-86, when the family lived in Australia. Over the years, Tom and Cathy enjoyed numerous other travel adventures, including five months in France, several trips to Europe, and ocean cruises through the Panama Canal, around Australia, and to Iceland. After Tom retired in 2009, the couple purchased a travel trailer and began volunteering as interpretive hosts with Oregon State Parks, particularly enjoying their time on the coast. Cathy's favorite assignment was at the Whale Center in Depoe Bay, where she delighted in helping visitors spot whales along the horizon or near the shore. In 2018, they began spending winters in Arizona, initially in their trailer and later in a Park Model at Sunrise RV Resort in Apache Junction. Cathy especially enjoyed the warm days and clear skies of Arizona, a welcome comfort as she battled cancer.

Cathy was a loving wife and devoted mother-steadfast, even-tempered, and full of joy. She had a rare ability to listen attentively and offer wise, non-judgmental advice when asked. These qualities earned her the deep respect and affection of her children, extended family, and close friends.

In addition to being a dedicated homemaker and mother, Cathy worked many years as a secretary and office specialist. Her talents included shorthand and rapid typing, skills that were rare even in her time. Cathy retired in 2008 after more than 20 years of service to the College of Exercise and Sport Science at Oregon State University.

A woman with a keen artistic eye, Cathy created beautiful mosaics, many of which still adorn the homes of friends and art buyers. She was also a passionate gardener, taking great pride in her backyard sanctuary, where she enjoyed reading and relaxing.

Despite the challenges of frequent chemotherapy treatments and doctor visits over the past four years, Cathy maintained a remarkably positive attitude and rarely complained. Her love for life never wavered, and she cherished every opportunity to spend time with her family and friends. Just one month before her passing, she enjoyed a two-week family trip to Ireland.

Cathy's gentle spirit and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Tom; their children, Christine Gallagher (Neal), Michael Adams (Kristy), and Patrick Adams (Michelle); grandchildren Jethro Adams, Ashley Lethrud-Adams, Lily Gallagher, and Clark Gallagher; and her siblings, Patty Sanderson, John Jett, Richard Jett, Robert Jett, and Steven Jett. She also leaves behind many dear friends whom she treasured.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society in her honor.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/cathleen-adams/obituary/

Copy