Captain Adams was a native and lifelong resident of Leon and Wakulla Counties. He was the first licensed charter boat captain, sailing the "Lucille" out of St. Marks for many years. He received his charter license in 1938. A United States Coast Guard veteran of World War II, as a member of the Auxillary he re-established the Flotiila along the Gulf of Mexico, from Cartabelle to Steinhatchee. Captain Adams served in the Coast Guard from 1939 - 1993, and was the last Coast Gaurd Lamplighter at the St. Marks Light House.

He is survived by his loving companion Feddie Hurley; 3 daughters; 3 sons; and several grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Captain Adams was preceded in death by his parents Elza and Retha Strickland Adams.