Obituary
Before his distinguished career in the Navy and aerospace industry, our father began his working life humbly as a movie theater usher and ticket taker in Ritz Movie Theater, Commerce, Georgia (November 1947-December 1951). This early experience taught him the value of hard work and dedication, principles that guided him throughout his life.
Our father was a man of many talents and accomplishments. Our father possessed an extraordinary talent that set him apart – his remarkable ability to fix almost anything with his extensive knowledge of electronics and a collection of old parts and pieces saved or given to him. This skill was not just a testament to his ingenuity but also a reflection of his resourcefulness and gift of how things work. Many times he knew how it worked or went together so well he had a hard time telling others helping how to help him.
Whether it was a simple device or a complex piece of equipment, our father could diagnose the problem and find a solution or by pass the problem. His workbench was a marvel of what he called organized chaos, filled with various components, wires, and tools scattered everywhere. What others might see as a pile of junk, he saw as potential – each piece a puzzle waiting to be solved.
He began his educational journey in the Navy School of Electrical and Electronics then later taking extension courses at Marietta Center vocational school in Georgia and the University of Georgia, where he studied Business Management and Industrial Management. His thirst for knowledge and dedication to excellence led him to further his education by continuing to take electronic courses at McDonnell Douglas Corporation in the space industry. This set the stage for a career that would leave an indelible mark on the field rocket/missile systems.
He served our country with honor and distinction in the United States Navy (December 1951 -November 1955), where he worked as a T & O Technician on First Stage Grid Stands 2B and 2C for Rocketdyne Engines. His duties involved complete missile systems checkouts, troubleshooting, and repairing complex systems. He was responsible for the maintenance and repair of ground support equipment and test systems, ensuring that every mission was a success. His expertise and dedication to his work were unmatched, and he took great pride in instructing others and sharing his knowledge.
While stationed on the Kwajalean Marshall Islands with the Navy, our father served as a firefighter and fire inspector at the US Naval Station. He conducted classes in both structural and crash firefighting, imparting essential skills and knowledge to his fellow service members. Additionally, he spent a year with Special Services on Ford Island, Hawaii. His unwavering dedication to safety and rigorous training was evident in every facet of his work, ensuring the highest standards were always met.
He continued to excel in his career, attending Aviation Electrician School in Jacksonville, Florida, where he worked on auto pilots, instruments, and related circuits for aircraft. He brought his skills to Lockheed Aircraft, working on the C-130 and B-47 aircraft as a leadman over the electrical crew. His work on various electronic systems, from fuel controls to propeller systems, was crucial to the success of countless missions.
Before retiring, our father held various positions at McDonnell Douglas Corporation, where he played pivotal roles across different departments. From providing crucial electronic support in DELTA manufacturing operations to rising to the second-in-command in the Launcher Vehicle Production Process, his versatility and expertise were invaluable assets to the company.
Throughout his distinguished career at McDonnell Douglas, our father was recognized multiple times for his exceptional efforts to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. His innovative solutions and strategic thinking not only contributed to significant cost savings but also earned him widespread acknowledgment and respect from his peers and supervisors. His dedication to continuous improvement and his ability to inspire others made a lasting impact on the organization.
In addition to his remarkable professional achievements, our father was profoundly involved in Temple Baptist Church after accepting Christ as his savior. He played a crucial role in shaping many spiritual lives of those in the church. By raising his family in the church, he instilled in us strong values of faith, service, and community.
His commitment to the church was unwavering, and he took on several leadership roles, most notably as the Sunday School Superintendent. In this position, he dedicated countless hours to organizing and overseeing the educational programs, nurturing the faith of both children and adults.
In 1967, driven by his profound dedication to the church and its mission, our father took out a promissory note in his name to help the church. This selfless act of faith and generosity was instrumental in laying the foundation for the church’s growth and stability. His vision and sacrifice ensured that Temple Baptist Church could thrive and become a beacon of hope and support for the community.
Our father’s involvement in the church was a testament to his character—his faith, generosity, and leadership. He was not only a pillar of his professional community but also a guiding light within his spiritual community, leaving a legacy of faith and service that continues to inspire all who knew him.
This tribute is a testament to a life well-lived and a family deeply loved. The enduring legacy of our father’s love is evident in each name and generation listed here, highlighting the profound impact he had on so many lives.
Survived by Loved Ones
Wife: Anna Belle Adams
Children:
Dr. Donald Ray Adams, Sr.
Linda Diane Black
Kenneth Mitchell Adams
Grandchildren: Eight cherished individuals who brought joy and laughter into their lives.
Great-grandchildren: Thirteen remarkable young souls, a testament to a family’s enduring love and legacy.
Great-great-grandchildren: Four little ones who represent the future and the continuation of cherished family traditions.
First selfie with a 35mm camera during the Korean War
50th Wedding Anniversary
Mom and Dad
As we think about Dad's life, many thoughts come to mind for each of us. We all saw him through different lenses. We may know about Dad's time in the Navy, his work as a firefighter and avionics technician, or his role at McDonnell Douglas space industry. Many know he contributed to hundreds of space launches, and even lent his voice to a movie produced for the space industry.
But there's a part of Dad that many might not know about. He thought in terms of “schematics.” He could analyze almost anything if he had a schematic. When I was a boy Dad accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior. He spent countless hours at Temple Baptist Church, working, going on visitations, and witnessing to others. Church was our social life. As he studied the Bible, he needed a schematic, so Dad drew one, to understand Christ's birth to His second coming. Schematics were Dad's language.
Recently, while helping him work on the stair lift, he mentioned needing a schematic, but the stair lift was too old and the company no longer provided one. I searched the internet and found a wiring diagram, which showed how to replace parts and how it was wired together. I understood the wiring diagram and could follow it; however, Dad wanted a schematic because he could analyze the broken switch and come up with an alternative way to make it work. While I might have simply bought a new part and replaced it, Dad's approach was different.
Dad was not only a man of faith and action but also a thinker and problem-solver. His unique way of seeing the world and solving problems is something that set him apart.
We can take solace in the fact that his legacy lives on in each of us. His love for his family, his dedication to his work, and his faith are just a few of the many things that made him an extraordinary man. While we may miss him dearly, we can honor his memory by embodying the qualities he exemplified: dedication, faith, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge.
So, as we remember Dad, let's also celebrate the incredible life he lived, the many lives he touched, and the legacy he leaves behind. His spirit, his wisdom, and his love will continue to inspire us.
Christmas 2023
Dad and cousin Charles
1952 Mom and Dad
Navy Mom and Dad
Dad and his Mother Gladys
Navy
Working on N8 Ford Tractor
N8 Ford Tractor
Award
Watching instruments from a Delta launch.