His childhood was spent in Bellaire, Ohio and lived a typical life among family and friends. Eventually, his talents as a musician developed and became apparent to all. In High School, he performed with the Boys Glee Club, Concert Orchestra, Chapel Orchestra - and was a trombonist in the Dance Band, Brass Sextet, Concert Band and Marching Band. He graduated from Bellaire HS (Ohio) in 1952.
While pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from Morehead State University, he taught music at numerous rural schools in Kentucky. Upon earning his degree in 1956, he taught instrumental music in Williamsburg, Urbana, East Liverpool Ohio, and concluded his music career in Ellwood City, PA.
After his retirement from education in 1995, they moved to Cordova, TN and he began a career in woodworking - opening a small shop specializing in caning and refinishing furniture.
He married Lois Clark in 1956, and they enjoyed 67 years of marriage - raising 3 sons and dedicating their life to the church.
His faith life was central to the person he was, and was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ - establishing memberships in Springfield and East Liverpool, OH - New Brighton, PA and was integral in establishing a congregation in Ellwood City, PA. They’ve spent the last 25 years as members of the congregation at Great Oaks in Bartlett, TN.
He was preceded in death by his father, mother and brother. He is survived by his wife Lois, sons Don (Laura), Randy (Tina), and Brad (Wendy), Sister in Law Delores Adams, nephews David and Bobby Adams, and grandchildren John, Hilary, Hannah Kate, Lauren, and Grace.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the UKRAINE MISSION c/o the Great Oaks Church of Christ.
A visitation for Donald will be held Thursday, April 13, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Great Oaks Church of Christ, 3355 Brunswick Road, Bartlett, TN 38133. A funeral service will follow 12:00 PM. A committal service will follow the funeral in Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, TN 38133.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.MemphisFuneralGermantownParkway.com for the Adams family.
