Barbara Jean Adams

Barbara Adams, 80, of Eau Claire, died Friday, May 22, 2020, at Spectrum Health Lakeland in St. Joseph.

She was born May 1, 1940, in Benton Harbor, the daughter of Orley and Mary Smith. Barb retired as the food services director for Eau Claire Public Schools. She was the founder of the Eau Claire Cherry Festival Bag Ladies, and she was also the baking contest chairwoman for many years. She was an excellent cook and won many awards, including best pie of the Berrien County Youth Fair. Barb was a proud member of the Eau Claire Class of 1958 and enjoyed many get-togethers with her classmates.

She is survived by her two daughters, Jacqueline Adams of Chicago and Sally (Douglas) Dupuie of Watervliet; her beloved grandson, Reid Adams of Dowagiac; sister, Judy Andres of Coloma; brothers, Jim (Carolyn) Smith of Eau Claire and Bill (Julie) Smith of Coloma; brothers-in-law, Ed (Carol) Adams of Berrien Springs and Earl (Joan) Adams of Ft. Myers, Fla; and several nieces and nephews.

Barb is predeceased by her parents; husband, Jack “Red” Adams, whom she married on Sept. 26, 1959, in Eau Claire; son, Douglas Adams; nephew, Todd Adams; and brother-in-law, Jim Andres.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, funeral services will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Online messages and memories may be shared at www.bowermanfuneral.com. Memorial donations may be made to Friends in Faith Community Church, 6550 Keigley St., Eau Claire 49111; or Eau Claire District Library, PO Box 328, Eau Claire 49111.