James Harrell Adams

James Adams was born on February 15, 1950, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to the late Blanche B. Adams and James H. Wilkins. He was the eldest of five brothers: Gerald J. Adams, Clyde A. Adams (Faith Adams), and Leonard L. Adams, who preceded him in death. He is survived by his brother, Raymond Adams. At an early age, James moved to Maryland with his mother and was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System. Before completing his studies at Forest Park High School, he enrolled in the Job Corps, where he successfully completed the program before joining the United States Marine Corps. James served his country with honor for four years in the Marine Corps, where he demonstrated dedication and excellence. While in the military, he pursued his secondary education and furthered his studies in electronics and communications. His service earned him numerous accolades, including the Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, Vietnam Service Medal (three stars), and the Good Conduct Medal. These honors were awarded for his courageous service during two tours of duty overseas in Vietnam. On November 1, 1972, James was honorably discharged from the United States Marine Corps and returned to Baltimore, Maryland. A passionate athlete, James enjoyed playing sports from his youth at the One Sixty-Three Recreation Center to his time in the Marine Corps. Whether it was basketball or football, he was confident in his skills—if you asked him, he would proudly say he was always the best on the court or field (smile). Even during his career with the State of Maryland Corrections, he continued his love for sports by playing baseball with his colleagues. Not long after returning home, James met the love of his life, Joanne Dyson. On February 10, 1973, they married, becoming Mr. and Mrs. James and Joanne Adams. From this beautiful union, they welcomed two children, Dionne (Dyson) Batchelor and Tremont Adams. James was very serious about education. Throughout his career and life, he took college courses at Baltimore City Community College, always striving to learn and improve himself. His commitment to education was a testament to his desire for personal and professional growth. With his military discipline and strong work ethic, James began a career with the Maryland State Correctional System as a Correctional Officer. Through dedication and hard work, he earned the rank of Lieutenant before retiring. After retirement, he worked for the Baltimore City Meter Police for about five years until health challenges led him to slow down. Even in retirement, James remained active, often busying himself around the home, showing love to his Family, picking with wife (Josie), playfully teasing his daughter, keeping his son on his toes, and sharing laughs with his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. His sense of humor, wisdom, and lively presence made him the center of attention at any gathering. If you knew James, you knew he was always the “most Handsome, Suave, and Debonair” man in the room—just ask him, and he would proudly tell you (smile).In his free time, James loved watching television. His favorite shows included The Temptations, The Equalizer, and Monk. James' time on earth may have come to an end, but his love, laughter, and cherished memories will live on through his devoted wife, Joanne Adams; brother Raymond Adams (Suzette Adams); daughter Dionne Batchelor (Mark Batchelor Sr.); son Tremont Adams; granddaughter LaToya Gregg (Dwayne Wilson); grandson Mark Batchelor Jr. (Nancy Batchelor); great-granddaughter Amani Gregg; great-grandson Cameron Batchelor; sisters-in-law Eugenia Dyson, Lori Goines, and Lisa Dyson; brother-in-law Steven Dyson; beloved 100-year-old aunt Ozetta Wilkens; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. James lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family, country, and education. His legacy will continue in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

James Harrell Adams

February 15, 1950 - March 23, 2025