Karl Norman Adams

Karl was born on October 7, 1952, in Gadsden, Alabama, to Norman and Joy Adams. He was the beloved older brother of Joy Gail, Lou Anne, and Denise. He graduated from Southside High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Alabama.

As a young man, Karl began working alongside his grandmother, Louise Laverty, at Laverty Music Company on Broad Street in Gadsden. His passion for music and serving others led him to eventually take ownership of the business, which he renamed Adams Music Company. Karl found great joy and fulfillment in providing musical instruments, equipment, and support to churches, schools, and organizations throughout Gadsden and North Alabama. He was well respected throughout the community for his integrity, knowledge, and dedication to his customers.

After the music store closed, Karl carried his love of sales and customer service into a successful career in the automotive industry. He worked at Pollock Motor Company and Crown Dodge before joining Ronnie Watkins Ford in 1998, where he remained until his retirement on September 21, 2021. Karl treasured the relationships he built over the years and took great pride in helping customers find the right vehicle to meet their needs. His honesty, kindness, and commitment to exceptional service earned him the trust and friendship of countless individuals throughout the region.

Not only was Karl a dedicated businessman and salesman, but he also devoted much of his life to serving the Lord through music ministry. He served as organist and later choir director at Riverbend Baptist Church before spending 22 faithful years as choir director at Stowers Hill Baptist Church. Music was one of God’s greatest gifts to Karl, and he used that gift to inspire worship and touch the lives of countless people throughout his years of service.

While Karl found fulfillment in his career and ministry, nothing brought him greater joy than being “Pops” to his three beloved grandchildren, Sara, Connor, and Emily. They were truly the light of his life. Some of their most treasured memories include early morning rides to school filled with Pops’ silly songs, unforgettable summer adventures to Six Flags and Dollywood, and countless road trips where the journey itself was often more memorable than the destination. Karl’s love for his grandchildren was evident in every moment he spent with them, and the memories they shared will remain cherished forever.

Karl was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Joy Adams; his sister, Lou Anne Adams; his son, Christopher Adams; his parents-in-law, James and Jean Stephens; and his brother-in-law, Steve Stephens.

He is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 53 years, Janice Adams; his daughter, Kellie King (Jonathan King); granddaughters Sara Langley ( Matthew Langley), and Emily King; grandson Connor Adams; sisters Joy Gail Flewellen and Denise Pfeifer(Dennis Pfeifer); several beloved nephews and their families; special friend Danny Hancock; and special loved ones Holly Edwards, Lisa Carter, and Adrian and Kayla Norris. Also, his faithful furry companion, Maggie, who brought him comfort over the years.

Karl will be remembered for his strong faith, warm heart, generous spirit, and genuine love for people. Whether through music, business, friendship, or family, he had a unique ability to make others feel valued and cared for. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.

He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former coworkers, church family, and the many customers whose lives he impacted throughout the years.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to SouthernCare New Beacon Hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and support provided to Karl and his family during his illness. A special thank you is extended to Kareena Lowery; nurses Jason, Amanda, Chris, Tonya, and Emily; aide Julie; and social worker Aja, whose kindness, dedication, and loving care brought comfort and peace during a difficult time. Your support will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 3:30 p.m., followed by a celebration of Karl’s life from 3:30–4:00 p.m. at Morgan Funeral Chapel, 625 Gilbert Ferry Road SE, Attalla. There will be no graveside service at this time.