Jerry “Griz” Adams

CLAYTON – On Monday, February 15, 2021, Jerry “Griz” Adams passed away at the age of 75. Jerry was born in Blair County, PA, on July 9, 1945, to the late Gerald Adams, Sr. and Isabelle Hricko Adams. He honorably served his country in the US Coast Guard. He retired from Caterpillar, Inc. after 40 plus years of service. He was a loving husband to his wife Judy and a loving father to his sons, Jerry and Bill, and his step-daughter Carie. Jerry “Griz” Adams was a man who positively impacted many lives. He was one of those rare people that was “bigger than life.” A natural leader, fearless, bold, and full of character, he was an example to follow. One of his greatest skills was his ability to draw out the best in others. He was a tough man. Few were tougher. Yet he had a big heart. Nowhere was this more evident than with children. He loved kids, and kids loved him. They drew out that big heart hidden under his tough exterior. One of the most common things said about “Griz” is that everyone that knew him had the utmost respect for him. He is a man that will be missed by many. Jerry is survived by his loving family, which includes his wife of 30 years, Judy Adams; sons, Jerry Adams, III, and wife, Demie of Salem, VA; Bill Adams and wife, Dawn of Willow Spring, NC; step-daughter, Carie Cowen-Quinones of Garner, NC; sisters, Patty Green, Judy Ainscough and husband, Dan, Debbie Haugh; grandchildren, Brennan, Ashley, Rachel, Emily, Mark, David; great-grandchildren, Qwinton and Dax; and his feline companion, Avery. A celebration of Jerrys life will be held on March 13, 2021, at 2 pm at Community Baptist Church, Garner, NC and will also be made available online through the churchs website. Arrangements are by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Garner. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com