Buford A. ADAMS

Family-Placed Death Notice

ADAMS, Buford A. BUFORD A. ADAMS Buford A. Adams, of Big Canoe and Decatur, GA, a decorated veteran of World War II who served in the 517th Parachute Infantry, U.S. Army, European Theatre of Operations from 1943-1945, passed away on October 17, 2013. He was 90. Born in Tallapoosa, Georgia, Mr. Adams lived in Chamblee, Georgia for almost 50 years before moving to Big Canoe, Ga in 1999. In 2012, he moved to Sunrise Assisted Living of Decatur, GA, but never lost his love for the beautiful mountains of north Georgia. Married for 71 years to the former Hazel Lois Hall, the couple had four children. Mr. Adams' career in the garment manufacturing industry spanned 40 years. He held the distinction of being the eldest member of Foothills Community Church in Marble Hill, GA, where he was loved and respected by everyone. Mr. Adams was drafted and served in the U.S. Army during World War II as a paratrooper, in campaigns throughout Italy, France, Sicily, Belgium and Germany. He received a citation for Purple Heart for injuries he received in battle, and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal of Valor by his Commanding General. The 21st Secretary of the Army, John McHugh, heard of Mr. Adams' distinguished military career, and after reviewing Buford's service in WWII, Secretary McHugh wanted to add his personal appreciation to one of the diminishing numbers of WWII veterans who fought in the "Great War" so crucial to the liberty and freedom we enjoy today. Secretary McHugh prepared a distinctive custom U.S. Army Plaque permanently registering Sergeant Adams' service as a WWII American Soldier who served his country with valor and honor. At the bottom of the plaque is a handwritten note: "Dear SGT Adams, Thanks for your service and sacrifice! Best Wishes and Army Strong!" In addition, Secretary McHugh had a special medallion delivered to Mr. Adams, which medallion is reserved for recognizing exceptional military service and bravery. The two-sided medallion bears the official seal of the Secretary of the Army on one side and the back reads: "Presented for selfless service", and signed by Secretary John McHugh, 21st Secretary of the Army. Mr. Adams enjoyed his retirement and his hobbies included woodworking, gardening, reading and crossword puzzles. Mr. Adams was preceded in death by his son, Stephen Ray Adams, a U.S. Marine, and combat Vietnam veteran. He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Hazel Lois Hall; daughters, Brenda Adams Nesmith of Statesboro, Georgia, Jean Adams Weathers and husband, Dr. Dwight R. Weathers of Lilburn, GA, and Linda Elaine Adams of Oakwood, Georgia. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; brothers, Bobby G. Adams of McDonough, GA, Reverend Bill Adams of Maryville, Tennessee, and brother-in-law, Carzell Morris of East Point, GA. Services will be held at 3:00 pm on Saturday, October 26, 2013 at A. S. Turner & Son, 2773 North Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30031 with Pastor Lee Weeks officiating. Visitation will begin at 2:00 pm. Interment will be at Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, Georgia on Monday, October 28, 2013 at 1:00 pm, where Mr. Adams will receive full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made in memory of Buford Adams to Foothills Community Church, 13724 Highway 53 East, Marble Hill, GA 30148. A. S. Turner and Sons Funeral Home and Crematory.