Jerry Adams passed away from his earthly home to his heavenly home on August 23rd, 2026 at the age of 87 after an extended illness. Jerry lived his life to serve others and mentor youth. He was a 1957 graduate of Deshler High School. He served in the United States Army. After his military career, he married the love of his life Carolyn. They had two children, Angie and Mike. He was a member of Christ Chapel Church. Jerry was an outstanding salesman with Goodyear/Southern Tire Company for 25 years. He then found his mission when he became the Athletic Director at Florence Parks and Recreation Dept. There he mentored thousands of youth from the Shoals Area through Recreation and Athletics. While working at the Florence Parks and Recreation Dept. he helped to start the local Special Olympics which continues today. Jerry was the first head basketball coach at Shoals Christian School. In addition to this, he coached football and baseball at Wilson School Youth Athletics. He also started the basketball camps at the Florence Coliseum and the youth who participated became known as Jerry’s Kids because he saw the potential in every young person and strived to help them reach their goals. He integrated the game of life into athletics and taught the youth service and leadership. He was a fantastic storyteller and author of several books. He told mesmerizing accounts of meeting celebrities throughout his life including Helen Keller, Ella Fitzgerald, and Elvis Presley. He always taught us the importance of where we came from and cherishing the moments we have been given. His life was a testimony of Faith, Service, Love, and Sacrifice.
He is survived by his wife Connie Chandler Adams; his loving sisters, Carolyn Gilbert and Robbie Carroll (Ralph); his daughter, Angie Tomlinson (Mark); his son, Mike Adams (Jennifer); Grandsons- Wesley Tomlinson, Jacob Adams (Laya), Will Tomlinson (Katie), Blake Adams, and Zach Adams, as well as a host of phenomenal nieces, nephews, and cousins
He was preceded in death by his wife of 34 years, Carolyn Adams; his father Willard F. Adams ; his mother, Nancy O. Adams; his brother, Rex Adams(Mackie); his sister, Sandy Brewer (Bobby); and brother-in-law, Barry Gilbert.
The Celebration Service will be held on Sunday, August 30th, 2026 at Christ Chapel Church.
Visitation will be from 3:00-4:30, the Service will begin at 4:30. Graveside Service will follow at Greenview Cemetery after the Celebration Service. The services will be officiated by Pastor Bobby Gourley, Reverend E.M. “Doc” Shell, and Grandson Blake Adams.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the local Singing River Athletes or Muscle Shoals Adaptive Recreation. Please message either of these organizations directly on Facebook for more information and indicate that you wish to make a donation in Jerry’s memory.
