Ann Adams

ANN DAY ADAMS

Cedar Rapids

Ann Elizabeth Day Adams lived until Thursday, March 6, 2014. She died at her home in Tampa, Fla., with loved ones by her side. Her wish was to be cremated and interred in Cedar Rapids next to her mother, Elizabeth Hines Day. Memorial services will be 11 a.m. Saturday, March 22, at All Saints Church, with the Rev. John Flerity presiding. A memorial reception will be held at Elmcrest Country Club following the service. There will be a private interment at Mount Calvary Cemetery.

Ann was born May 17, 1962, in Washington, D.C., the eldest of Joseph and Elizabeth Day's two daughters. Upon her father's completion from law school, Ann and her family returned to Cedar Rapids. She was a 1980 graduate of Washington High School in Cedar Rapids. Ann attended the University of Northern Colorado–Greeley and was a member of Alpha Phi sorority.

Following college Ann moved in 1984 to Tampa, Fla., where she spent the rest of her life. Ann would remain an avid, if long distance, Iowan at heart.

In Tampa, Ann met the love of her life, Alton Adams III. They were married in 1991 at Jekyll Island, Ga. Ann and Al were blessed with one child, their son, Alton IV, in 1999.

Ann had an unquenchable appetite for life which even years of major health problems could not diminish. She had a passion for travel and eagerly welcomed new adventures. She enjoyed downhill skiing from Canada to Colorado and like her father, golfing anywhere she could find a green fairway.

In Florida the Adams spent many relaxing days at their weekend get-away home north of Tampa on the idyllic Wichiwachee River, observing and playing with the manatees living below their dock, kayaking and entertaining friends. This natural environment was one of Ann's most treasured retreats. Sharing time with the Adams was always an unforgettable experience. They were the perfect Florida guides to their visitors.

Ann had a successful career as a commercial real estate leasing broker with Taylor & Mathis Inc., Tampa, until 2005, when she suffered a debilitating stroke that left the right side of her body paralyzed. At that time she was compelled to adjust to a "new normal" involving chall-enging physical limitations. Ann's lengthy rehabilitation demonstrated her invincible spirit. She tenaciously "re-learned" the basics of life skills. She was an inspiration to all as she assumed this altered lifestyle.

The stroke did not define Ann nor limit the Adams' from their adventures. Always philosophical, she commented she was now able to devote valuable hours with son, Alton.

As a family, this closely knit trio made many "lifetime journeys" together in a limited number of years. Ann and son Alton often returned to spend summers in Cedar Rapids, providing Alton an insight into his mother's hometown and state.

Highlights of their travels were a 20th anniversary trip to Hawaii, including Alton IV, and a spring holiday in Cancun, Mexico, with dear friends.

This past Thanksgiving, the Adams' were able to fulfill Ann's dream of visiting Rome and seeing Pope Francis.

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer at Christmastime 2012 did not prohibit Ann from living the rest of her life to the fullest. One of the most beautiful tributes given to Ann was from her principal oncologist, who described Ann as a true gladiator. That she was, and she will forever be remembered as such, fiercely pushing obstacles aside and optimistically embracing each day she was given.

Ann lived a purposeful life. Although she had been an accomplished businesswoman, Ann had the innate ability to value what truly was meaningful in life. The greatest legacy she left was this: She was a loving wife, adoring mother, caring daughter, loyal family member and steadfast friend.

She was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Elizabeth Hines Day; her maternal and paternal grandparents; her maternal aunt, Margaret Hines Rine, and paternal uncle, Thomas Hines DVM.

Ann's death will be felt profoundly by Al Adams, Ann's spouse, best friend, soul mate and unwavering caregiver; her cherished son, Alton IV; father, Joe (Andrea Chapman) Day; sister, Ellen (Steve) LeRoy; and a family circle, including aunts, uncles, loving cousins, nieces, nephews and in-laws. Countless friends will miss Ann's light in their life.

Endless appreciation goes to Ann's aunt, Mary Day, who provided assistance and comfort to Ann and her family as a caregiver until the end of Ann's life. Mary is an example of the proof there are angels on earth.

To honor Ann's memory, donations may be made in her name to Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (www.ocrf.org) or The Juvenile Diabetes Foundation (www.jdrf.org) in place of flowers.

Farewell, Ann, the Glad-iator... you faced many obstacles bravely and did not allow them to diminish your great zest for life. You have left this earth far too soon, but you embraced every day of your life with fervor.

God Speed!... And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. W. Shakespeare.