SSG (Ret) Earl Charles Adams, Jr.

Earl Charles Adams, Jr., son of the late Earl Charles Adams, Sr. and Emma Elizabeth (Leatherberry) Adams, was born on December 31, 1937 in Port Republic, New Jersey where he grew up and graduated from high school. At the age of 17, Earl joined the United States Coast Guard and served for 10 years before joining the United States Army where he retired on May 2, 1977. At the time of his retirement, Earl was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri as a drill sergeant. He had attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award), National Defense Service Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal w/4 Bronze Service Stars, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross w/Palm. On March 28, 1983, Earl was united in marriage to Betty Lee Herchick in Lebanon, Missouri. They shared over 33 years of marriage together and many wonderful memories. In 1988, Earl retired to Florida and in his retirement year, he continued his education and received his Paralegal Degree in 1995. In his spare time, he enjoyed traveling, woodworking and decorating his Saftey Harbor, Florida home in the community house contests. He was a member of the VFW Post in Lebanon, Missouri and a lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Earl passed away Friday, April 22, 2016 in the Lebanon South Nursing and Rehab Center of Lebanon, Missouri having attained the age of 78 years. He will be sadly missed but fondly remembered by all those that knew and loved him. Earl leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Betty Adams of the home; five children, Teresa Faust (Jack) of Lebanon, MO, Earl Adams III and William Adams, both from out of state, Scott LePage of the State of Florida, and Windy Gerth-Cousino, of the State of Michigan; sixteen grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; his brother, Edwards Adams of the State of NJ; five step children, five step grandchildren, six step great grandchildren, all from out of state; a number of nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, Earl was preceded in death by one infant son: Edward Adams; and one daughter: Carol Ann Adams. Graveside services with military honors were held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, April 29, 2016 in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville with United States Army Chaplain officiating. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Arrangements were under the direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. A memorial has been established in Mr. Adams’s name to the Supports of Children with Additional Needs, and contributions may be left at the funeral home.

SSG (Ret) Earl Charles Adams, Jr.

December 31, 1937 - April 22, 2016