Dr. David Arthur Adams Sr.

Dr. David Arthur Adams Sr., 92, of Kelly, NC passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 9, 2024.

 He was born November 26, 1931, in Lakewood, Ohio, son of the late Arthur Joseph Adams and Ruth Elizabeth Joy Adams. He graduated in 1953 with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife conservation management from NCSU and joined the United States Army.  On December 22, 1955, he married Patricia Holmes Smith in Centerville Baptist Church in Kelly, NC. Together, they raised their son, David Adams Jr. and had a beautiful full life together. In the year 1962, he received his PHD in Ecology. He used this degree to serve in many capacities, from Waterfowl Biologist with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commissioner to the Presidential Appointed Commissioner of Marine Science from 1967-1969. He worked with the North Carolina Fishery Commission, the Stratton Commission and served on the Marine Science Council. In 1970, he served as the President of the Coastal Zone Resources Corporation, volunteered with the N.C. Land Trust and was on the New Hanover County Planning Board, all with no pay. He was passionate about his profession in so much that he served as a Professor for the NC State University to teach others how to appreciate our resources and conservation. After his retirement he remained just as hard-working and devoted as ever in all his capacities. He lived his life with great enthusiasm and passion. He shared his vast knowledge with his family, his friends, his country and anyone he encountered.

Dr. David was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, Patricia Holmes Smith, as well as one sister, Mary Marjorie O’Neil. Left to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy are son David Adams Jr. (Lori) of Kelly, brother Dick Adams of Wilmington, three grandchildren Bradley Adams (Tanya Britt), Amy Rosa (Abel), Brooke Adams Grindstaff (Drew) and three great grandchildren Kori Adams, Presley Rosa, and Rilynn Rose.