Irene Jean Reed Adams, 87, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, in Butte, Montana at Continental Care and Rehabilitation.

Irene was born on February 16, 1939, in Anaconda, Montana, to Arlo Reed and Catherine Judge Reed. She grew up in southwest Montana. On May 10, 1955, Irene married the love of her life, James (Jimmy) Adams. Their marriage endured until James's passing on October 31, 2010.

Irene was preceded in death by her husband, Jim Adams; her parents, Arlo Reed and Catherine Judge Reed; and her brother, Arnold "Nudy" Reed.

She is survived by her brother, Clay "Oscar" James Reed; her children, Arlo Adams (Jeryl), Diane Stanisich, and Edie Handsaker; and her grandchildren, Jaime Valentini (Geno), Kristoffer Adams (Danelle), James Stanisich, Arlo Stanisich, Ashley Hart (Devin), Amber Handsaker, and Cori Handsaker. She also leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Irene lived a full and adventurous life. She loved fishing, hunting, and camping, and treasured the many hours spent enjoying Montana's outdoors. She especially enjoyed spending winters in Nevada and Arizona, where she often took day trips into Mexico and delighted in visiting local casinos. These travels provided many happy memories and stories that she loved to share with family and friends.

Irene had a soft spot for several special pets over the years; her dogs, Keno, Chelsea, and Foxy, and her cats, Geisha & Suey. At home, Irene found joy in crocheting, gardening, playing cards, and working on puzzle books. Many of her friends and family will remember her sweetie pies. Everyone always looked forward to them. She sent the best chili to hunting camp for everyone. Every time the great grandkids visited her home, she was certain to provide Root Beer and would search her closets for things to gift them. They enjoyed puzzles and sudoku with her. Her hands were rarely still. She was known for her spicy attitude, her resilience, and independent spirit, qualities that endeared her to everyone who knew her.

Since December 2022, Irene had been a resident of Continental Care and Rehabilitation, where she received compassionate care and support. Beginning in July 2026, Beehive Hospice assisted in her care, providing comfort and dignity during her final months. The family expresses deep gratitude for both Continental Care and Rehabilitation and for Beehive Hospice.

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by her family and friends.

"Those we love don't go away. They walk beside us every day, unseen, unheard, but always near, still loved, still missed, and forever dear."