TBGB has learned that Ms. Carolyn Jean Adams, the mother of gospel artist Yolanda Adams and a beloved schoolteacher in the Houston area, transitioned from labor to reward on Monday, October 13, 2008.

The award-winning singer has credited her mother’s commitment to music as important in her development as a gospel artist.

Read the obituary in the Houston Chronicle and consider sending a comforting word to the family in the online guest book.

The Black Gospel Blog sends Ms. Adams and her family its deepest sympathies.

10 Comments

  1. sheleta October 16, 2008 at 8:50 pm - Reply

    you and your family are in my prayers

  2. Chantal October 17, 2008 at 1:24 pm - Reply

    I know how it feels to lose a parent and for me I found strength in God and I know that it will get better.

    God Bless

    Chantal “Song Bird” Henson

  3. Anonymous October 19, 2008 at 3:03 pm - Reply

    Nikki

    I lost my mother six months ago –I know how you feel Yolanda my heart goes out to you and your family.

    Thank you for being such positive role model to all women. Loveliveandbelieve

  4. Johnnt t. October 20, 2008 at 1:22 am - Reply

    Yolanda,
    My name is johnny t., Mrs. Adams taught me at st theresa. i kills me to know she has passed away. everyone loved her so much. you are in my prayers.
    Johnny

  5. Anonymous August 27, 2009 at 10:13 pm - Reply

    Yolanda I am so sorry for your lost. I just found out yesterday when I heard your song Fragile Heart. I mean I don’t know how it feels to loose a mother but I know I have to start taking responsibilites. I know yor mom is in God’s hands. All you have to do is be strong. I am only fourteen years old and I have to be on task with God. I am currently living in Baker, Louisiana. I have always dreamed of meeting you. My heart goes out to you and your family. I will always keep you in my prayers. If you ever need anyone to talk to just come visit my church Faith Healing and Deliverace. In the meantime I will be lifting you up in prayer. Just be encouraged. Jasmine Courts

  6. Anonymous February 29, 2012 at 5:58 am - Reply

    Yolanda,
    Your mom was an amazing woman! She taught me at St. Theresa’s. She is still my favorite teacher till this day! I think about her often, and laugh everytime I think about her calling someone s Dora! She was the best by far! She was truly special, and will always be remembered!
    Jennifer Sebesta Parker

  7. […] when Yolanda was 13, and Carolyn Jean Adams, a classically trained musician and local schoolteacher who passed away in 2008. Yolanda is the oldest of their six children; one of her younger sisters is up-and-coming hip hop […]

  8. Alyssa Dalton January 21, 2021 at 2:44 am - Reply

    Hi,
    I just watched you sing for Biden— and looked up your mom- I absolutely loved your mother- she taught me for years at St. Theresa. She wouldn’t even look at my work and write a giant 100 on it.
    I’m a teacher now too and will always remember your mother ever so fondly.

  9. Patricia Davis June 29, 2024 at 10:03 am - Reply

    It is never too late to give condolences to you for the passing of your beloved mother my mother passed away during this same time i I am much better and I am so sure you are as well

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Written by : Bob Marovich

Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.