Everett Odell Adams Jr.

Everett Odell (E. O.) Adams, Jr., 73, died peacefully at home on April 13, 2020 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on January 21, 1947, the eldest of five children born to the late Odell Adams and Vernie Mae (Lee) Adams. In addition to his mother, he will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 51 years, Bonnie (Matthews) Adams; his son and daughter-in-law, Dell and Cristy (Norris) Adams; his daughter, Keli Adams; and his grandson, Rett Adams. He also leaves behind his brothers, Tim Adams (Susan) and Don Adams; sisters, Beth McGee (Ray) and Christy Adams-Shannon (Spike) as well as a multitude of other family members and friends.

E. O. was a graduate of Cleveland High School where he excelled both in academics and athletics before continuing his education at Campbell College earning a B.A. in Business Administration while also playing baseball. These accomplishments led to inductions into the Johnston County Athletic Hall of Fame and the Cleveland High School Hall of Fame in recent years.

An avid athlete, E. O. was key in implementing the Cleveland Athletic Assocation where he served as President, coached Dell’s and Keli’s baseball and softball teams, and umpired/officiated for Little League baseball and basketball leagues.

His professional career started at First Citizens Bank following college; however, preferring to be outdoors, he transitioned into the tobacco industry before starting Adams Grading & Hauling, Inc. and AGH Transport, Inc. which he closed upon retirement.

The family will be holding a private ceremony to honor E. O.’s life. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in E. O’s memory to the charity of your choice. If you do not have a specific charity to honor, the family recommends one of the following: Oakland Presbyterian Church Building Fund, the Cleveland High School Hall of Fame, the Johnston County Athletic Hall of Fame, or the National Parkinson’s Foundation.