Barbara Ellen Boyce Adams of Laurel passed away on Sept. 10, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Oct. 25, 1940 in Laurel to the late Daniel Joseph Boyce and Dora Ruth Betts Boyce. Barbara graduated from Laurel High School in the “Class of 1958”. She was retired from the State of Delaware with the Justice of the Peace Court 3, where she had over 33 years of service.
Barbara was a member of Trinity Church and later Elliott’s Worship Center as well as past treasurer; she enjoyed coordinating the “Backpack Ministry”, making the delicious easter eggs, and maintaining her beautiful garden.
She is survived by her children, Alan Woodrow Adams (Carol) and Dora Kay Adams; grandchildren, Alan Schyley Adams, Corey Lee Smith and Brittany Smith; great-grandchildren, Alan Adams Jr., Austin Adams and Emma Smith; sister, Marie Ann Boyce Whaley; brother, Joseph Robert Boyce; brother-in-law, Donald L. Hickman; special nieces and nephew, Brenda, Jeremiah and Lora Lee, as well as several other nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Barbara is preceded in death by her husband, Ira Nelson Adams, whom she was married to for over 62 years, her longtime friend, Florence M. Truitt, and her brother-in-law, Roy A. Whaley. Barbara was an inspiration to all who knew her and she was loved by all.
All services will be held privately. Contributions may be made in Barbara Adams’ honor to: Elliott’s Worship Center, 17249 Phillips Hill Road, Laurel, Delaware 19956 or Trinity Community Cemetery, c/o Alton Adams, 16467 Adams Road, Laurel, Delaware 19956. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.hsdfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are in the care of the Hannigan, Short, Disharoon Funeral Home in Laurel.