Norman Ronald Adams, lovingly known as "Ron", "Grandpa", "Great Grandpa" and "Gramps", passed away peacefully on June 28, 2026, in St. Augustine, Florida, at the age of 92.

Born on February 13, 1934, in Cedar Ridge, Missouri, Norman lived a life marked by unwavering faith, hard work, generosity, and an enduring love for his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ardra Norman Adams and Mimi Veda Adams; his sister, Marilyn Sue Colster; and his brother, Jerry Arnold Adams.

Norman is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Sylvia Darlene Adams, whom he married on December 3, 1953. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and love. He is also survived by his brother, Gary Sheldon Adams (Christine); his children, Ronda Lynn Whittington (Raymond), David Alan Adams (Mary Ellen), and Julie Ann Bailey (Robert); his cherished grandchildren, Jennifer Hanna (Raymond), Daniel Whittington (Emily), Anna Hewell (Will), Kendra Marais (Justin), Lauren Ray (Stephen), Chesley Bailey, and William Adams; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Gavin Hanna, Henry Ray, Jack Marais, and Iris Gibson. He also leaves behind many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss him greatly.

Norman graduated from Leeton High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Missouri State College. Throughout his career, he steadily climbed the corporate ladder with Kroger, SupeRX, Circle K, and Hop In. He later fulfilled his dream of business ownership by operating multiple Ann's Hallmark stores. Following retirement, he devoted much of his time to investing, a passion he eagerly shared with family and friends.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Norman was an active member of many churches throughout his life, with Creekside Christian Church in St. Johns, Florida, serving as his church home in recent years. He generously supported numerous churches, clubs, and organizations, including the Kiwanis Club of Wyoming, Ohio, the St. Johns Sports Club in St. Augustine, Florida, The Lions Club in Roanoke, Virginia, and Hillsdale College.

Norman embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved studying and trading stocks, building and flying remote-control airplanes, boating, water skiing, hunting, skeet shooting, shooting pool, attending theater and symphony productions, and traveling the world. One of his greatest joys was attending the sporting events of his children, grandchildren, and great- grandchildren, always cheering them on with pride. He especially treasured taking his family on trips abroad, believing that seeing the world together created memories that would last a lifetime.

Those who knew Norman will fondly remember his quick wit, generous spirit, and love for his dogs, who could always count on him to share a snack. More than anything, he cherished his family. Whether offering thoughtful investment advice, celebrating life's milestones, or simply spending time together, Norman made each person feel loved and valued. His wisdom, integrity, kindness, and steadfast devotion to those he loved leave a legacy that will continue through the generations that follow.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at Leeton Christian Church beginning at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 10:15 a.m. Interment will take place at Mineral Creek Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. The following weekend on July 18th a memorial service and reception will take place at Westminster in St. Augustine, FL at 2pm.

Though his presence will be deeply missed, Norman's life was one of purpose, faith, and love.
His example will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.