Wendell Clay Adams passed into eternity March 2nd, 2022. He was born on May 19, 1945, to Marshall and Mary (Alexander) Adams in Elberton, GA. Wendell grew up on a working dairy farm, where hard work and strong character were built into his soul. He attended the University of Georgia, graduating in 1969 with a Degree in Agricultural Engineering. He then served our country with the Army from 10/1969 through 4/1972, spending a one-year tour in the Vietnam War from 10/1970 through 10/1971. He earned the Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Service Stars, National Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Army Commendation Medal.
After discharging from his service, he opened a car wash and gas station on Cassatt Ave called Gyro – a perfect ‘70’s name. This became a staple location for not only getting gas and a clean car, but a covert location in which a new generation would learn hard work and build character under Wendell’s humble supervision. In 1975 he met Glynn Ellen, his wife of 46 years. At only 30 years old he willingly took on a readymade family – gaining two teenagers, a task not meant for the weak hearted. But he did so with gentleness and great support.
Later they welcomed two daughters merging what had been two families into one. After selling his business in 1989, Wendell started yet another career with Sunbeam Bakery. He worked there until 2010, when his first tangle with Cancer forced him to retire. This battle proved to be tough, being told little could be done – he didn’t listen, and his words as treatment began were “let’s get this show on the road!”. And he did win! Wendell and Glynn Ellen then fully retired in Alachua, Florida, with a large yard – and a tractor!
Wendell bravely faced many challenges; the war, self-employment, teenagers and finally cancer – again. He handled all with courage and as the gentle, sweet, wise soul he was. We miss him, and look forward to seeing him, when we will catch up on life, and hear a story or two. Wendell is survived by his wife Glynn Ellen, his children Leslie Dyal (Alan), Darrell Hudson (Beth), Laura Adams, Dr. Deborah Eib (Reuben). Grandchildren Michele Armenta (Arick), Josh Hudson (Brittany), Jessica Dyal, Jacob Hudson, Rachel Hudson, and Mira Eib. Great grandchildren Rhyan Armenta, Thatcher Hudson, Piper Hudson, and Sawyer Hudson. His siblings Frank Adams, George Adams, and Joyce Ray, along with many loving nieces and nephews who he loved very much. He was preceded in death by his parents Marshall and Mary Adams, a brother David Adams and grandson Christopher Dyal.
A 2:30 Committal service will be Friday May 13th (he would find humor in that) at Jacksonville National Cemetery; 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218, promptness is important – this is after all a military event. Please consider joining our family to share some memories at Cross Creek on Lane Ave following the committal service. Address 850 Lane Ave South, Jacksonville, FL 32205.
Lola Saxon
October 15, 2022, 7:02 am
So sorry for the family’s loss. Prayers for the family an friends
joyce a ray
October 15, 2022, 7:02 am
Words are truly inadequate to describe my younger brother and the youngest of 5 children. He and I were 2 years apart and shared many awesome childhood adventures on our family farm. Wendell was a man of complete moral integrity, highly intelligent, possessed a world-class sense of humor, and had the most beautiful, twinkly blue eyes. I adored him. My thoughts and prayers are with his immediate family. Joyce Ray
Leslie Dyal
October 15, 2022, 7:02 am
I can see Mira – his granddaughter – in this picture, especially the eyes.