Paulette Adams

It is with deep sorrow, but also great relief, that we announce the passing of Paulette Adams on March 22, 2026, after a long illness. Paulette was born on September 20, 1954, in Jacksonville, Florida, to Paul and Thelma Boggs. She was the second of five children. When I envision Paulette's birth, I see all four pounds of her shooting out of the womb, tiny fists clenched, ready to stand up for herself, her loved ones, those who are marginalized, and for the truth. She maintained that feisty mental posture up to and including her death. Paulette's father was in the Navy, and her family moved around a lot. In the third grade, Paulette attended three different schools. The most significant move came when she was thirteen. Her dad was transferred to Midway Island, one of two islands that are nesting sites for thousands of Laysan albatrosses. The birds and their nests were everywhere, including the Boggs' family yard, where Paulette was set about taming them. As an adult, Paulette realized the unique and rare experience it was to live on Midway Island and always dreamed of returning. After returning to the United States, the Boggs family moved to Naples, Florida, and it became their home. Paulette loved nature, and Naples and the surrounding areas were rich in wildlife. There, she became an avid fisherman and eventually became an excellent photographer, especially of birds. In 1974, Paulette married Rich Adams, which ended in divorce twenty-two years later. They had one son, Ryan, who Paulette felt was her greatest gift. Paulette was a stay-at-home mother for several years. She and her family loved animals, and they always had several dogs and cats. After many visits to the vet, Southway Animal Hospital recognized her keen mind and experience with animals and hired her as a veterinary assistant. She was ever-learning and over the years developed a strong knowledge of veterinary medicine, enabling her to help better the lives of thousands of animals. Paulette also loved music. She got her first guitar when she was ten years old. Self-taught, she sang and played throughout her life. For several years, she was in a band, for a time with her son and her brother-in-law. She also sang at weddings and other special occasions. Paulette was a "name that tune" savant. She knew more songs and artists than anybody I've ever known. In addition to music, Paulette loved the outdoors and being active. She played softball, tennis, and especially loved golf. Paulette is loved and remembered by her son, Ryan (Katrina and children, Maesyn, Lena, and Morgan); grandson, Justin (Caylei and their new son, Karson); her sister, Susan and brother-in-law Lance, who have been her dedicated caregivers for the last three years; her brother, Joe (Debbie); and her sister, Karen. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews; a close friend, Peggy Lewis; many other friends throughout the country; and her dog, Addie. She was preceded in death by her parents; younger brother, David; nephew, Tyler Freeman; and brother-in-law, Bob Mooney. Those who knew Paulette will miss her quick wit and metaphoric sense of humor. I remember her telling me, "If you're going to ride the roller coaster of life, you had better be prepared to get your hair messed up." She referred to my refrigerator as the "food museum" as well. We will miss her dogged tenacity in standing up for the truth and justice; her artistry as a photographer, musician, and writer; her knowledge and love of nature and animals; and the inner strength that she had to endure hardship and suffering. Although Paulette will be sorely missed, we are so thankful that we got to share our lives with her and that she is finally able to have peace and rest. There will be no funeral per Paulette's request. Cremation will take place with a celebration of life held at a later date. www.LooseCares.com

Paulette Adams

September 20, 1954 - March 22, 2026