C. Louise Adams Obituary (2026)

C. Louise Adams, 80, of Yakima, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, surrounded by family and friends. Born on April 17, 1946, in Ellensburg, Washington, Louise was raised in Zillah and graduated from Zillah High School with the Class of 1964. She continued her education at Yakima Valley College, earning her associate degree in 1966, before graduating from Central Washington University in 1969 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. Teaching was more than a profession for Louise; it was her passion. She began her career at Zillah High School in 1969 as a Physical Education and Language Arts teacher while serving as the Drill Team instructor. In 1976, she joined the staff at Zillah Middle School, where she spent the remainder of her 31-year career teaching Language Arts, Physical Education, and Computer Education. She also coached volleyball at both middle school and high school levels. Even after retiring in 2000, Louise continued sharing her love of learning by teaching at Yakima Valley College and Heritage College. Louise's dedication to her community extended far beyond the classroom. For 41 years, she served as the scorekeeper and announcer for Zillah basketball, becoming a familiar and cherished voice to generations of athletes, coaches, and fans. She was also well known throughout Central Washington as the "Voice of the Central Washington State Fair" and spent countless hours announcing state tournaments at the Yakima SunDome. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and unmistakable voice became part of many of the community's most memorable events. Music and service were also central to Louise's life. She sang with the Bel Canto Choral group and enjoyed volunteering throughout her retirement. If you stopped by the Harman Center on a Saturday morning, chances are you would find Louise there with a smile, lending a helping hand and visiting with friends. Louise is survived by her brother, Frank Phelps (Barbara); her niece, Darlene Bangs (Glen), and their children, Lindsey and Logan; her nephews, David Phelps and his children, Zachery and Nathan, and Shawn Phelps (Jody), and their children, Derrick and Karli. Louise will be remembered for her generous heart, unwavering dedication to education, and lifelong service to her community. Whether she was in the classroom, on the sidelines, behind a microphone, or volunteering with a smile, she touched the lives of countless people. Her kindness, encouragement, and unmistakable voice will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.at the Zillah Alumni Gym, 1301 Cutler Way, Zillah. A private family inurnment will be held at Zillah Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Zillah High School ASB to support student food programs and other student need or mailed in care of Brookside Funeral Home (PO Box 1267, Moxee, WA 98936), who is caring for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brooksidefuneral.com.