R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home | Memphis, TN

Obituary For Dr. James A Adams

Dr. James A. Adams

Dr. James A. Adams was born in Mason, TN on April 24, 1940 to the proud parents of Mr. & Mrs. William Henry Adams. He was nurtured by loving parents, who prayed for a preacher to be born into their family. God answered their prayers with a twelve-pound baby boy, whom they named James Allen Adams. He was gifted by God with talents of singing, teaching and preaching that have been shared across the country. During his life he was a talented musician that played for a variety of churches and singing groups. Dr. Adams was a 1959 graduate of Fayette Ware High School in Mason, TN.

At the age of twelve he accepted Christ at the Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Mason, TN under the leadership of Rev. J O Melton. As he grew older, he moved to Memphis, TN and united with Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Richard Lovelace. Dr. Adams served as a Deacon, President of the Pastor Aide Club, Sunday School Superintendent and a Trustee, that showed great commitment to God, his church and pastor.

On December 30, 1960 Dr. Adams married his high school sweetheart, Earline Whitmore. To this union three adorable children were born: Allen Wayne, Tonia Danette and Tena Arnette. Throughout his life he was an exemplary husband and father that believed in family and the church. Dr Adams knew the importance of a man working to take care of his family. He was employed at Fred Montesi Grocery Store, Schering Plough Inc, a Disc Jockey for KWAM and a driver for Durham Bus Company.

After his bus driving days were over, God spoke to him and said "James now is the time". It was an awesome day, July 6, 1966 when Dr. Adams accepted his call into the ministry and he devoted his life to becoming a full-time evangelist. He preached his first sermon on July 18, 1966 entitled, "I Must Preach". Shortly afterward God would lead him to be the become the pastor of the church where he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior, Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, Mason, TN. In 1967 he was elected to be the Pastor of Hammond Grove Missionary Baptist Church. In 1974 he became the Pastor of St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church. He remained faithful to both congregations until his demise.

Dr. Adams was a faithful member of the Memphis Minister's Association. In 1993 he was appointed Moderator of the Friendship District Association. In 1994 he was appointed Moderator of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc. God continued to bless Dr. Adams as he became the President of the Tennessee Regular Baptist Mission and Education State Convention, as well as becoming the President of the Pastor's Division of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.

Dr. James Allen Adams transitioned from this earthly life on Saturday, May 9, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents William & Katie Adams; his siblings Eliza Whitley, Willie S. Yarbrough, Mary Ann Adams, Vernell Williams, Ruth O. Lewis, Bernie M. Bolds, Estella Grimes, Dorothy V McCulley, Corlene Mason, Moses Adams, William G. Adams, and Samuel Adams. He leaves a legacy of memories: his wife of fifty-nine years, Earline Adams; his son, Wayne Adams; two daughters, Tonia A.(Edward) Kilgo, and Tena A. (Paul) Harris; two grandsons, Jeremy DeAllen Adams, and JaAllen DeAndre Adams; one great-grandson, Jaxson ('Lil Dr.) Tyree Allen Adams; his sister Julia Mae Frazier,one daughter-in-law Pat Adams and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

The following are the service arrangements for Dr. James A. Adams. Visitation Wednesday, May 20,2020, viewing 4-7 PM at Hammond Grove Baptist Church at 7924 Osborntown Road, Arlington, TN, 38002. Thursday, May 21, 2020 viewing 4-7 PM at St. Stephen Baptist Church at 4245 Walter K Singleton Parkway, Memphis, TN 38128. Friday May 22, 2020 Memorial service beginning at 6 PM at Hammond Grove Baptist Church 7924 Osborntown Road, Arlington, TN 38002. Home going Service Saturday, May 23, 2020 beginning at 11 AM at St. Stephen Baptist Church, 4245 Walter K Singleton Parkway, Memphis, TN 38128. The interment will be at Hammond Grove Baptist Church Cemetery immediately following the home going celebration.

Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic we will be practicing social distancing and ask that all in attendance please wear your mask and gloves. Please follow the instructions of the funeral director and staff. Due to the COVID-19 stipulations, we can only allow ten people in the building at a time for viewing. There will be no gathering inside the church during the visitation. Please adhere to social gathering practices put in place at the church to help protect our community.

Guest Book

When I was about 13 years of age, Pastor Adam's, (uncle JA), and I played for The Little Tabernacle Baptist Church. Then it was pastored by the late Reverend Richard Lovelace. Henry Adams,Katie Adams,Uncle JA, Corleen, Mason and many more influenced my piano talent. They shaped my musical style and religious beliefs by way of gospel music. Our family is awesome when you look at the fact that Grand Pa and Grand Ma, Henry and Kattie Adams were basically responsible for it all. Uncle JA went on to build a legacy that will never be forgotten. I will truly miss him. Left is this Adam's family legacy that I am sure will also live on for generations to come. I love you all. Everybody know me as Jr. Be Blessed everybody.

- na

My sincerest condolences to the family and both congregations. Dr Adams was a great leader, preacher, pastor, friend and big brother. He taught me much during the years of our fellowship and relationship. My the Lord continue to keep you during these difficult days. Pastor Floyd D. James & family.

- na

I Want The Adams Family To Stay Strong Though This Time And Keep Their Heads Up. Know that Pastor Adams is in a better place and he will be truly miss. From My Family To Yours,La'Toya Morgan

- na

I want to offer my deepest condolences to the Adams Family. Pastor Adams was a like a father to me; I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge the influence that he had on my life. Anyone at St. Stephen or Hammond Grove will tell you that he loved his congregation, but his heart was the youth. He gave us the opportunity to serve in the way that we were comfortable with and taught us to be bold in our faith. He encouraged and nurtured us; he taught us commitment, responsibility, and how to be good leaders. Because of his teachings, we developed true friendships and a bond that we will cherish for the rest of our lives. Pastor Adams will be greatly missed, but his legacy will live on. I am praying God's strength and comfort for Mrs. Adams, Wayne, Tonia, Tena, and all of the family. I love you all dearly. -Patryce (Patty) Gleeton

- na

My prayers are with the Adams family at this time. Sending my deepest condolences. Pastor Adams loved his church and his members. He will be truly missed. Sincerely LaTonya Hunt

- na

- na

It is very hard to say good-bye to such a great man. He was definitely called by God to be a minister . He alway stood by my family through the happy time and the sad times. I will miss him so much. He taught us that the word so is one of the most powerful words you could ever use. Because he love us so. To the family my prays and love are with you. Loretta Lee Alexander.

- na

It is very hard to say good-bye to such a great man. He was definitely called by God to be a minister . He alway stood by my family through the happy time and the sad times. I will miss him so much. He taught us that the word so is one of the most powerful words you could ever use. Because he love us so. To the family my prays and love are with you. Loretta Lee Alexander.

- na

It is very hard to say good-bye to such a great man. He was definitely called by God to be a minister . He alway stood by my family through the happy time and the sad times. I will miss him so much. He taught us that the word so is one of the most powerful words you could ever use. Because he love us so. To the family my prays and love are with you. Loretta Lee Alexander.

- na

My prayers and condolences to Mrs. Adams and family. Survirn J. Webb

- na

My condolences to Mrs. Adams and family. I was a member at St. Stephens since '79-'96 and I was involved in the baby choir, youth young adult choir & adult choir. It was a great pleasure to be under his leadership. I remember when Pastor A. was preaching a sermon during my younger days and B.J. and I were sneaking out of the sanctuary. While Pastor A was into his sermon, without missing a beat, he called out our names and continued on with his sermon. Of course, he busted us out from trying to sneak...lol Pastor A, you will be truly missed on earth but, heaven has gain a great one...from Jimmie, Kiera and Kyia Webb

- na

This world iis going to miss one of God's Greatest Pastors. He always had encouragement for young pastor & preachers.His legacy will live on forever. We love you & will be praying for you. Pastor Jody&Claudia Stark

- na

To the Adams Famiy, words cannot Express my feelings. Pastor Adams was a tall and wise man,full of wisdom. I love Pastor Adams and 1st lady Earline. His legacy will continue because of his labor he invested. Love you all and may God continue to keep you all. Berlinda Coleman kn5q

- na

May God continue to bless the Adams family. With deepest respect and sympathy. Etha Williams and family.

- na

May God continue to bless, heal, strengthen and comfort St. Stephen and Hammond Grove Baptist Churches and the Adam's Family. Charlotte Bachus St. Mark Baptist Church

- na

May God continue to bless, heal, strengthen and comfort St. Stephen and Hammond Grove Baptist Churches and the Adam's Family.

- na

My deepest Condolences to the Adams family, I told Pastor Adams even though I wasn't there on Sundays, St. Stephens would always be my foundation, being under his Teaching and Leadership. SandraSmith St.Stephens Baptist Church

- na

To the Adams Family,please accept my heartfelt condolences. Pastor Adams married me to my late husband Terrence Pryor (passed in 2015) in 1988. My husband was already a member of the church and I later joined. The Adams family were always welcoming and warm. I pray your strength and endurance in Christ! May your beautiful memories comfort you as you embark this journey without your head. Remember, no matter how difficult it is or how painful, God holds you with his righteous RIGHT hand! To God be the glory for the things HE has done! Deepest Sympathy, Ms. Pamela Pryor.

- na

My name is Eva Douglas , the niece of my favorite uncle Pastor Adams. I being under guidance every since I left the nest from his sister Ruth Lewis. He taught me the word of God ,and much more than you can Imagine. He was the foundation of my life. I'm going to miss him so much but will never be forgotten. You have my sympathy and condolences to the Adams family. I love you Eva Douglas & family

- na

I would like to give my condolences to Mrs. Adams, Wayne, Tonia, Tena & the vast. Stephen's Church Family. I've known Rev. Adams since I was about 10 years old. He was like a 2nd Dad around St. Stephens for me . I think is was because he had daughters Tonia and Tena and son Wayne and we were all near the same age.. It felt like he understood my little sister Celina and me .. I feel like he had that in common with my Dad, Rev. James Moten, Sr. What I know is he loved God, Mrs Adams ( who I love so much) the Kids and the Church. What I know is that he was always committed and dedicated to God and his flock. What I know is his loved his family. What I know is he loved me and the whole Moten Family. My sister, Mrs. Mona Rainer, is still a devoted member at the church. He will be missed. I love you Pastor Adams . I would love to share the words from a VINCE Gill song.. "Go rest high on that mountain. Son, your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin' Love for the Father and the Son...." Wendy Moten

- na

Thanks to pastor Adams's for his love an support to the Hayes family through the years. He will be messed love to his family.

- na

I was stationed at the military base in Millington Tn and was looking for a church home while there. I called St Stephen's and Pastor Adam's answered and invited me to worship, I went and he knew me right away without even ever seeing my face before, I shared with him my father had recently passed and he said I'll be your father for a long as you want me to be. I later served as his deacon and Male chorus member until I retired and returned back home in Texas. Thank you Wayne, Tonia and Tina for sharing your dad with me and mother Adam's thank you for always showing me the same love as Pastor Adams while I was there. Love you all Deacon Daryl Roberts

- na

I thank God for allowing our paths to cross. Pastor Dr. James Adams was a great friend of my Dad (Rev. J. C. Bachus) and Rev. Adams told me to call him Uncle James, I will miss him. I pray God's continued strength for Lady E. Adams and family. Love, Anita Mims

- na

My condolences to the Adams family. I really enjoyed being in the mist of his services at both churches. He will truly be missed. My name Avis Davis and family.

- na

My name is Paulette Anderson, the niece of Uncle J. My special and loving memories of Uncle J (Pastor Adams) being under His Annointed Ministry at St. Stephen's B.C. was truly rewarding. He taught the miraculous Word of God! I pacifically remember one of His sermons title; We move in, We move On and We move out. I loved His Preaching, Teaching, Prayers, and Singing. I loved it when he would sing Amazing Grace the old fashion way: "I was young, but I recall, singing songs of my Mother's Joy, as the shadows will gather around at the close of day, and as I sat on Mother knees, it was those days that use to be,as we sang of God's Amazing, Amazing Grace. Aunti Earline and to my cousins of the Family, I love each of you dearly in my heart and know that our love one went ahead of where we All hope to go to Be with the Father and his Son, Jesus...We will sing, shout and never get tired and never grow old! I love you All !!! God Bless each of you!

- na

I would like to give my condolences to Mrs. Adams, Wayne, Tonia, Tena & the vast. Stephen's Church Family. I've known Rev. Adams since I was about 10 years old. He was like a 2nd Dad around St. Stephens for me . Mainly, because he had daughters Tonia and Tena and son Wayne and we were the same age , so he understood my little sister Celina and me .. I felt like he had that in common with May Dad, Rev. James Moten, Sr. What I know is he loved God, Mrs Adams ( who I love so much) the Kids and the Church. What I know is that he was always committed and dedicated to God and his flock. What I know is his loved his family. What I know is he loved me and the whole Moten Family. My sister Mrs. Mona Rainer is still a devoted member at the church. He will be missed. I love you Pastor Adams . The words of a VINCE Gill song " Go rest high on that mountain. Son, your work on earth is done. Go to heaven a-shoutin' Love for the Father and the Son...." Wendy Moten

- na

Prayers for the Family

- na

Offering our heartfelt condolences to the family of Pastor Adams. You all are in our thoughts and prayers. Wayne & Jennifer Ford and family

- na

Our condolences and sympathy to the Adams family! He will be missed!thank you for sharing this man of God with the world! He has been apart of our family for years! We loved him dearly! And He has left a great mark on this earth! He made sure we all had apart of the church activities and getting Gods message out and to study our word! He will forever be in our hearts! Bettye Claxton & Rae'Meka Johnson

- na

Hi my prayers and condolences to the family. I'm Vicki Walker Strong. I've known Pastor Adams 40 odd years. My grandmother Lola Wilson deceased and Mrs. Alberta Carter introduced Pastor Adams to St. Stephen MBC When Rev. L.L.Love passed away. He became the new pastor of St. Stephen. He was a great leader and teacher. He loved his choir,adult and youth.He embrace us all with Love, encouragement and family love.We will all miss Pastor Adams. Family stay lifted up and know that our prayers are with you and the entire family.May God continue to have you all in his favor.

- na

Our condolences from the Miller Family of Gallaway Tennessee, our prayers are with your family, and continued Blessings. Priscilla Jean Miller-Collins

- na

Heartfelt condolences to the family of Dr. James A. Adams Barbara Edmonson

- na

I'm so grateful to have meet Dr. Adams affectionately known to my siblings as Uncle James, I remember wanting to purchase a tie set for my dad, Uncle and I went shopping I asked the man how much and he told me niece never do that again I said well I need to know how much it's gonna cost and he said you shouldn't be shopping with me because when I want something I just buy it, now I find myself offended when I go places and the sales person or the waitress volunteer the price to me, I now understand Uncle James will truly be missed my condolences to you and your family during this time. God is the only source for us getting through this. My prayers will be with you at such a time as this love the Janes Family

- na

Praying for Family members that God will take care of you

- na

I came under Pastor Adams leadership at the age of twelve and his first words to me was "you remind me of my daughter". I lit up as these words came out of the mouth of this giant man of God. Little at the time then that I could have imagined how much knowledge and direction I would receive 37 years later. I miss you so dearly but there is great comfort in knowing you are peacefully resting from a job WELL DONE. Barbara, Melody, Arianna and Braxton...

- na

My deepest condolences to the Adams family. I am so sorry for our loss. Praying for you all. Curtistine Ray and family.

- na

Paw Paw This Broke My Heart I Will NEVER Forget All The Wonderful Things You Taught Me Your Truly Going To Be Missed Pastor Adams AKA Paw Paw It's So Hard Paw Paw TAKE YOUR REST NOW PASTOR YOU'LL FOREVER LIVE THRU ME PAW PAW LOVE YOU ALWAYS ~ Khelsey Allen ~

- na

He was always there for me, my Pastor, my Big Brother, my Friend!

- na

The sorrow in your house is deeply shared in our house too. The Fugh Family. Rev. Adams did my fathers eulogy (Jesse Fugh) and two of my uncles REv. Joseph Fugh, and Rev. T.R. Fugh.

- na

We are praying for you Mrs Adams and the entire family. May God give you strength, and may His grace and mercy carry you on. God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26 Yours in Christ, Pastor Leonard & Mary Dawson

- na

Dr. James A Adams, known to some as Pastor Adamd..He was my Pastor for 20 years..He eulogized both of my grandparents as well as my father-in-law..He was a GIANT in the ministry..Great Leader, Preacher, Evangelist,Husband,Father,Grand-father,Great grand father, mentor, advisor and friend..He was so humble and he loved the people of God..He will truly be missed..We will continue to pray for the family.. We Love the Adams family! The Barnes & Family

- na

Sending our deepest condolences. LaQuita Sisco Monica and Willow Porter

- na

Dr. James A. Adams was our Pastor and our Friend for over 25 plus years. EVERY important event in our lives, he was a permanent present figure. No matter how busy he was, he always had time for us. We thank him for his leadership, love and his example of being a GREAT SERVANT. We are praying for our First Family and our Churches. We will get thru this season together. Tony, Toni and Lakeisha

- na

Offering sincere sympathy to the Adams family. Praying God's peace surrounds you all. Sincerely, Bessie Cohran

- na

He always had encouraging words for me and my husband both he was definitely a shepherd and watchmen over all of God sheep's. He was love and will truly be missed. RIH Pastor

- na

My prayers are with you all at this time

- na

Our will never forget how Pastor Adams welcome me to his home and gave me clothes upon my arrival to Memphis after Katrina. He was a true shepherd and he was responsible for me becoming closer to Christ

- na

This man loved his church and his community. We served together in the late eighties and nineties at the Neighborhood Christian Centers, inc JoeAnn Ballard

- na

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- R.S. Lewis & Sons Funeral Home