Gary Elmo Adams

Gary Adams, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, educator, and coach, went home to be with the Lord on October 30, 2025, in Greeley, Colorado. A lifelong Coloradan, Gary dedicated more than 30 years to education and athletics, shaping the lives of countless students through his leadership, kindness, and commitment to excellence.

Born on April 14, 1943, to Charles and Alice Adams, Gary grew up valuing hard work, faith, and community. He graduated from Grand Junction Central High School, earned his Associate of Arts degree from Mesa (Junior) College, and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Western State College in Gunnison. He later completed a Master’s degree in K–12 Administration at Colorado State University and held a Colorado Administration Principal License.

Throughout his career, Gary served in several Colorado school districts, including Wray, Sterling, Longmont, and Cañon City. As Principal of Wray Elementary and Mountain View Core Knowledge Schools, he helped lead both schools to earn the John Irwin School of Excellence award. In Wray, he was named District Accountability Principal of the Year (2001–2002) and guided many successful academic and athletic programs.

As an accomplished coach, Gary helped lead multiple championship teams, including State Football Titles, and was known for inspiring teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Outside of school, he loved hunting, fishing, and golfing, and was active in his church and community, volunteering with Little League, Junior Olympics, and the Yuma County Drug and Alcohol Task Force. Since retirement, Gary devoted his life to his precious family and friends.

Gary was married to his beloved wife, Diana, for nearly 62 years, October 31, 2025, would have marked their 62nd anniversary (and with leap years and all, it probably was 62 years if not more). He is survived by his son Glenn and daughter-in-law Bonnie of Severance, Colorado; his daughter Tammy of Mesa, Arizona; his grandchildren Titus (wife Dakota) of Kersey, Colorado, Tiffany of Urbana, Illinois, and Tierra (husband Andrew) of Kersey, Colorado; and great-grandchildren Taylynn, Waylon, and Xander. He is also survived by his brother-in-law Roger and wife Liz of Nixa, Missouri, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Alice Adams, and brother-in-law Lee.

Gary will be remembered for his integrity, gentle humor, and lifelong dedication to others. His legacy continues through the many lives he touched as a teacher, coach, mentor, and friend.

A celebration of Gary’s life will be held in late spring of 2026.