Jerry Kent Adams

Born in Oakley, Idaho on August 4, 1940, to Ellsworth “Kelsey” Adams and Marzell Wilson, Jerry was the youngest of 3 brothers. Growing up with a father who worked as a forest ranger, Jerry spent his childhood summers in the Sawtooth National Forest at Bostetter in Idaho with his family, exploring, hunting and fishing. He spoke fondly of those summer days, and those early memories created a lifelong love of the outdoors.

Beyond his love for the outdoors was his love for his high school sweetheart, Sharon Harper. They were married on May 2, 1959, at her family home in Oakley, Idaho. Later they were sealed in the Salt Lake Temple. To support his new family, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Army which took them to California and then Kenai, Alaska. Later, he transitioned into the Utah National Guard where he was deployed for Operation Desert Storm serving in Germany. Jerry was proud to have served his country and loved his time in the military. His service and sacrifice would yield a lifetime of security—benefits that proved essential in both Sharon’s and his own medical care, allowing them to spend more precious time at home with their family.

Eventually making their home in Salt Lake City, Jerry began his career with Sperry/Univac working there for 31 years. He was also employed by Barney’s Canyon Mine and Kennecott driving heavy haul dump trucks for another 11 years. Throughout his employment, Jerry worked hard without complaint to ensure his family never went without.

A faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jerry served with quiet devotion in numerous callings throughout his life. He exemplified Christlike service, ministering to his neighbors and ward members with selflessness and love. Jerry was an incredible caregiver not only to those he ministered in his ward, but also to his wife, Sharon. Near the end of Sharon’s life, Jerry cared for her with extraordinary tenderness and unwavering devotion.

Friendly and outgoing, Jerry always made friends wherever he went. He was known for his quick wit and dry sense of humor. He loved to joke with his friends and family, always making them smile. He loved spending time with his family, traveling or cheering on his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren at many sports and school events. He especially loved road trips with Sharon in their fifth wheel.

Jerry is preceded in death by his wife, Sharon, parents, and older brothers Floyd and Allen Adams.

He is survived by his children Roger (Jill), Doug (Carrie), Jill, and Amy (Andy) Olsen, 9 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren with one on the way.

Our heartfelt thanks to the loving care and support over the years from the University of Utah Cardiology staff and more recently the Hematology Oncology staff at Huntsman Cancer Institute. Special thanks to the staff at Highland Care Center and True North Home Health and Hospice who cared for our dad until the end of his life.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 30th, at 11:00 AM at the Hunter 9th Ward Chapel located at 3450 South 6400 West in West Valley. A viewing will be held on Thursday evening from 6:00-8:00 PM at Valley View Funeral Home, 4335 West 4100 South in West Valley, and from 10:00-10:45 AM prior to the funeral at the church. Interment will follow in the Valley View Memorial Park.

Dad, we will cherish the time spent with you. Rest peacefully now and enjoy your sweet reunion with mom. We love you and will miss you both so very much.