Elayne Gay Church Adams

Elayne Gay Church Adams (Wolbert), born on January 9, 1948, in Tucson, Arizona, peacefully passed away on September 29, 2024, in Rosenberg, Texas. At the time of her death, Elayne was a beloved member of St. John's Community United Church of Christ, where her faith and dedication continued to flourish.

A lifelong learner, she earned her Associate Degree in Nursing from Mesa Community College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Healthcare Administration from Graceland University. Elayne became a nurse in 1970 and since then practiced in various healthcare settings, clinics, and hospitals. Her favorite nursing role has been as a certified case manager. She most recently worked for Memorial Hermann Healthcare System in Houston.

Her commitment to supporting those in need was evident through her role as a CanCare buddy with OvarCome, where she provided invaluable support to those newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Elayne served as a Celebrate Recovery leader for over 20 years, helping others navigate their paths to healing and recovery. Additionally, Elayne was a cherished Sunday School teacher, imparting her spiritual wisdom to countless children.

A deeply spiritual and grounded woman, Elayne lived the greatest commandments: loving God with all her heart, soul, mind, and strength, and loving her neighbor as herself. Psalm 139 is her life scripture. Her profound prayer life and unwavering faith touched the lives of many through the churches and organizations she was involved in. Elayne was a passionate advocate for justice, inclusivity, and unconditional love, leaving a lasting impact on her family and community.

In her spare time, Elayne enjoyed reading mystery novels, birding, and traveling. She cherished the beauty of nature and the joy of discovery, enriching her life with diverse experiences.

Elayne is preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband of 41 years, Steven Lynn Adams; her parents, Lowell Homer Church and Ruby Frances Tarter; and her sister, Marilyn Gossett and spouse Tommy. She is survived by her daughters, Amy Ketch (spouse Dawn Ketch) and Manda Adams (spouse Syed Rehman); and her son, Bryan Adams (spouse Tina Norwood); her sister, Karen Oropeza (spouse Gilbert); her twin brother, Wayne Church (spouse Barbara); as well as many family members and dear friends and colleagues, all of whom she loved. Elayne’s precious cat Boots has been a faithful companion to the end.

At this time, no memorial service is planned. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to OvarCome, an organization dear to Elayne's heart, at https://ovarcome.org/honor-your-ovarcome/

Elayne’s legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She will be profoundly missed.