Mary Adams
August 28, 2017
Mary Jane Adams, a life-long resident of Des Moines, died following a long and stoic struggle against multiple health challenges. She was preceded by her mother, Frances E. Adams and her father, Chelsey L. Adams. She is survived by her brother, Bruce (Diana) and cousin, Nanci Browning.
For most of her professional life she was active in the production side of publishing, where she was able to employ her considerable artistic skills. Her private artwork demonstrated an impressive skill and seriousness, but she was also adept at deploying a lightsome use of color and design with flashes of humor.
Though shy by nature, Mary did not lack for friends. She was blessed by true and dear friends from childhood on, including “The Capitol Avenue Gang” – you know who you are, the Panera Group, which started out in the Hotel Fort Des Moines, and her abiding connection to her friends in faith, nor should we omit The Order of the Eastern Star.
Those who wish to remember Mary by supporting a cause dear to her might wish to consider a contribution to The Salvation Army; 1216 East 25th Court; Des Moines, Iowa 50317.
Cindy Fahey
09/06/2017
Mary Jane was part of our Capitol Avenue "gang" and will be missed by us all. I remember riding the bus downtown with her to shop at the Five and Dime when we weren't very old. Those were the days! We always got together with all of our old neighborhood friends for lunch at least twice a year and it won't be the same without the kind and thoughtful person that was Mary Jane.
Lorene Smith
08/31/2017
My condolences to Bruce. I'm sorry about Mary Jane. She will be missed.
Sandy Klever
08/31/2017
Mary Jane was a part of my childhood, growing up in the same neighborhood on Capitol Ave. I am so glad we could still stay in touch over the years with our get-together lunches. I am sad she is gone.
Nancy Baltazar
08/31/2017
Mary Jane was a long time friend. We lived just a house a way and spent many hours playing together. on Capitol Ave. I remember playing dress up at her house. She was quite the artist and I am lucky to have one of her paintings. I also remember how we went to the Chinese Opera and to the Star Trek Festival at Riverside, Iowa which she enjoyed.She will be missed. A gentle, quiet individual.
Nancy Moon
08/31/2017
I have known Mary Jane for more than 65 years. We grew up in the same neighborhood. We continued to celebrate our friendship throughout these many years. She was quiet, and kind. Our "Capitol Gang" will miss her.