Joseph Duffield Adams, Jr.
1947 - 2025
In loving Memory of Joseph Adams
Joseph Duffield “Joe” Adams Jr, 78, passed away peacefully surrounded by his sons on August 31, 2025, in East Bend, North Carolina.
Born on February 16, 1947, in Philadelphia Pennsylvania, Joe was the son of the late Joseph D. Adams Sr. and Florence Adams. He served his country with honor as a member of the United States Army for twenty years, achieving the rank of Sergeant. His military service took him to Germany, Ireland, and Texas, where he earned the respect of those who served alongside him.
Following his retirement from the Army, Joe continued his dedication to public service through a career with the U.S. Postal Service that spanned more than three decades. His commitment and reliability left a lasting impression on colleagues and community members alike.
Joe was also a talented artist with a boundless creative spirit. With a great love for the Irish culture and Celtic art. A lifelong learner with a deep interest in culture and history, he found joy in fossil and gem hunting—pursuits that reflected his love of discovery and nature’s wonders.
He was a devoted husband to Margaret Adams and a proud father to five children: Jason Adams; Keith Adams (Brenda); Jonathan Adams (Adriana); Joseph Adams (Tammy); and Kimberly Adams (Andy). Joe also found great joy in his role as grandfather to Keith Jr., Cody, Victoria, Brandon, Justin, Christian, J.T., Cyrus, Jacob, Brooke, and Ashe. He is also survived by his brothers Wayne Adams (Anna) and Mark Adams (Michele). As well as many nieces and nephews.
May Joseph Duffield “Joe” Adams be remembered with gratitude by all who had the privilege to know him.
Joe i sure miss you. Our home is so lonely, and empty without you. You was a very sweet kind, and generous man. Watch over Jason, Keith, Jon, Boo, Kim, and Marge. You fought a good fight Joe. You will never be forgotten. Rest In Heaven until we meet again.
Joe was my oldest big brother. In the late 1970’s he and I went on a road trip, following the Rio Grande River from El Paso to the Big Bend region. We camped out in the desert, discovered unexplored indigenous dwelling sites and collected amazing artifacts, swam in the Rio Grande, caught rattlesnakes, cooked and ate some of them, caught tarantulas, scorpions, various species of lizards etc. Once we were chasing a large lizard across the desert when it sought refuge in a random hole. I clearly remember Joe, without hesitation, shoving his arm into the hole and pulling out the lizard. Even I’m not that crazy.
That was Joe.
Going to any lengths in order to satisfy
his insatiable curiosity.
A brilliant self taught artist
A person who could keep up in conversation with anyone on just about
any subject.
You taught me stuff
I love you man
Happy trails Bro
Your little brother Mark
Joe-You were a very Special Person! Loving ,Kind.An Amazing Celtic Artist! Whose artwork should have been shown in Galleries & Museums.Iam sorry we never got you there!To many things got in the way! I will forever miss you! Until we meet again say Hello to your Mom & Brendan for me.Hope they are playing some good Irish Music for you! Lo💜e Forever…Bridget