Ida Catherine Adams
Ida Catherine Adams, affectionately known as Kitty, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2024, at Evelyn's House in Creve Coeur, MO. Born on April 11, 1933, in Blackwater, MO, to Francis and Elizabeth (Thorp) Hoke, Kitty's vibrant spirit and unwavering strength were evident throughout her 90 years of life.
Kitty grew up in the small town of Blackwater, where she attended local schools and laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. From an early age, she was industrious, taking on various jobs to support herself and her family. Her career path led her to work briefly for Carollo's Turkey Farm, but it was in the kitchens of local restaurants like Kovac's and the Bobber Cafe where she found her true calling. Kitty's culinary skills delighted many, and her presence in the kitchen was a warm and welcoming fixture until her retirement in 1991.
On May 25, 1979, Kitty's heart found its match when she married Jim Adams. Together, they navigated the joys and challenges of life, and Kitty embraced her role as a mother to her seven children: Russell, Carol, Robert, Linda, William, Connie, and Donna. Her commitment to her family was unwavering, and she took immense pride in raising her children, often extending her love and care to her cherished grandchildren. Kitty was blessed to be able to spend time raising three of her grandchildren: Rachel, Michael & Robin; along with a great grandson, Landon. Kitty's involvement in their lives was a testament to her dedication, as she frequently attended their activities and ensured they were part of her faith journey by taking them to church.
Kitty's interests extended beyond her family. She was an avid gardener, finding solace and joy in the earth's bounty, and her sewing skills were a reflection of her meticulous and creative nature. Her determination was as much a part of her as her spit-fire personality and witty humor, which brought laughter and light to those around her.
Faith played a central role in Kitty's life. She was a long-time attendee of Grace Baptist Church in Catwissa, MO, and later, First Baptist Church in Sullivan. Her faith was filled with the same spirit and vivacity that she brought to every aspect of her life. Kitty's presence in the church community was a source of inspiration and comfort to many, and her faith-filled life was a beacon of hope and strength.
Kitty is survived by her children: Russell “Lee” Watring and wife, Marie, Carol Schmuke and husband, John, Linda Thompson all of Bourbon, MO, and William “Billy” Watring of Leasburg, MO; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, & great great-grandchildren; two brothers: Don Hoke and wife, Sue of St. Clair, MO and Tom Hoke and wife, Charlotte of Stanton, MO; a sister-in-law, Henrietta Hoke of Sullivan, MO; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; three children: Robert “Bobby” Watring, Connie Hughes, and Donna Atchison; three grandchildren: Stevie Hughes, Blake Elizabeth, and another in infancy; her parents, Francis and Elizabeth Hoke; and four brothers: James Hoke, Junior Hoke, Joseph Hoke, and Frank Hoke.
Services will be 12:00 PM noon, Friday, March 1, 2024 at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan with Pastors Matt Dudley and Chester Lahmann officiating. Burial will be at I.O.O.F Cemetery, Sullivan.
Visitation will be 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, Friday, March 1, 2024 at the funeral home prior to the service.
Memorial contribution in Kitty’s memory may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Friends may share condolences with Kitty’s family online at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home of Sullivan, MO.