Cara Jean Adams February 2, 1939 - February 19, 2025

Cara Jean Adams, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and teacher, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2025, in Draper, Utah, at the age of 86.

Born in 1939 to loving parents (Norvel and Zelpha Dayton) in their home in Payson, Utah, Cara grew up with a love of learning and a kind, generous spirit. She attended Spanish Fork High School, where she met the love of her life, Gary Lee Adams. The two graduated together in 1957, and a year later, they were sealed for eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple in 1958.

After Gary joined the U.S. Air Force, they were stationed in Yak, Montana, and later in Petaluma, California, where they put down roots and started their family. While in Petaluma, Gary served as a firefighter, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of the community. During this time, Cara and Gary were blessed with three children: Marie Michael (Shelly); Stephanie, and Gary Steven (Steve).

Education was a lifelong pursuit for Cara. After attending Brigham Young University and Utah State University, she completed her studies at Sonoma State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English and a teaching credential. As a dedicated first-grade teacher in the Petaluma School District for over twenty years, she touched the lives of countless students. She was known for her patience, warmth, and unwavering belief in every child’s potential. Many of her former students returned years later to thank her for the impact she had on their lives.

After retiring from teaching, Cara and Gary returned to Payson, Utah, to build their dream retirement home—a place that became the heart of their family. Their 14 grandchildren, including two who passed away in infancy, found endless love and support within those walls. Cara cherished nothing more than time spent with her grandchildren, writing them heartfelt letters, reminding them of the unique talents she saw in each of them.

Cara and Gary found great joy in retirement, spending quiet evenings on their back porch gazing at the Wasatch Front, becoming active in their community, and taking memorable trips together. One of their greatest adventures was serving as ambassadors to guests during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, a role they took on with enthusiasm and joy. They also loved to travel, with their Mediterranean cruise standing out as a highlight, allowing them to explore Europe together.

When Gary passed away in 2009, it left a deep hole in Cara’s heart. Though she continued to enjoy life, she never stopped longing for the day when they would be reunited. Her faith in eternal marriage and the afterlife remained strong, sustaining her through the years. She made the most of her time with friends in her ward, often gathering for card games like Five Crowns and sharing laughter and fellowship.

Cara had an incredible gift for seeing the best in others. She led a Christ-centered life, full of love, kindness, and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of compassion, wisdom, and devotion will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.

Cara is survived by her three children, Shelly (Neal), Stephanie (Scott), and Steve (Amy), as well as her 14 grandchildren:
• Shelly and Neil’s children: Brenda, Regina, Ricky, Angie, and Peter Grant (deceased)
• Stephanie and Scott’s children: Adam, Rachel, Tiffany, and Preston
• Steve and Amy’s children: Reyna, Rylee, Dallas, Isaac, and Tucker Gary (deceased)

Cara is also survived by her sister Diane and brothers Duke and David. She is preceded in death by her sister LaRayne. She has 11 great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored. She cherished every moment spent with her family, celebrating their achievements, encouraging their dreams, and showering them with unconditional love.

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to Walker Funeral Home in Payson. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 75 South 600 East in Payson, Utah. Visitation will be prior starting at 10:00 a.m. There will also be visitation on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 587 South 100 West, Payson, Utah. Interment will be in Salem City Cemetery, 965 South 140 East, Salem, Utah.