Jean Margaret Mary Adamson

Jean Margaret Mary Adamson (née Barnett), 89, passed away on January 20, 2022 in Shawnee, Kansas. Born in Finzean, Scotland, she spent her early years in the village of Fochabers -- a place that remained very dear to her heart. In 1947 her family moved to Dundee where she attended Morgan Academy and went on to study French and German at St. Andrews University. She traveled throughout Europe and worked as a high school language teacher until meeting Jimmy Adamson, her husband of 35 years. Following their marriage in Scotland, she emigrated to the United States with him in 1965. They lived in Rockford, Illinois until 1974 before settling in Santa Rosa, California where she lived until 2018.

Jean was a devoted wife and mother, and an active member of First Presbyterian Church of Santa Rosa, where her husband served as pastor until 1995. She was involved in many aspects of the church, such as Presbyterian Women, the choir and mission outreach. She also continued to travel and explore the world throughout her life, organizing and leading tour groups to various destinations. She loved the beauty of Sonoma County and especially appreciated the coast, the redwoods, and walks at Spring Lake.

Following a decline in health, Jean spent the last years of her life in Benton House of Lenexa, Kansas, where she enjoyed regular visits to local parks, church attendance, lunch outings and evenings playing games with her daughter, Jennifer, who was a constant and devoted companion. She expertly navigated dementia with her characteristic stoicism, wit and sense of humor. Her final weeks were spent with her daughters and continued to be filled with much warmth and laughter.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, the Reverend Dr James Buchan Adamson; her parents, the Reverend Christopher Charles and Mrs Sarah Jane Ogg ("Jean") Barnett; and her brother, Charles Henry Barnett. She is survived by her three daughters, Fiona B. Adamson of London, England; Jennifer B. Adamson of Olathe, KS; and Wendy S. Adamson of Santa Rosa, CA. A memorial service will be held on April 8, 2022 at 2pm at First Presbyterian Church, 1550 Pacific Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95404. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to First Presbyterian Church.