Spence Adams

Mr. Spence Adams, age 78 of Douglas, Ga. passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2016 at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Jacksonville, Fl. after a brief illness.   A native of Atkinson County, Mr. Adams was born December l4, l937, son of Clinton and Gertie Sears Adams.  He had made his home in Atkinson County and Coffee County for most of his life.  He was a retired ranger from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Game and Fish Division and after retiring he challenged the mandatory retirement age of 55 for state law enforcement officers.  Due to his challenge his case altered the 55 year old retirement age and resulted in extended employment for hundreds of state law enforcement officers upon their request for a waiver. He loved the outdoors and was an avid hunter and fisherman.  He also had an interest in gardening and cooking.  He was of the Methodist Faith.  He was preceded in death by his father, Clinton Adams.   Survivors include: Mother:  Gertie Sears Adams of Axson, Ga. 2 Daughters:  Jennifer Adams and companion Melanie Dyer of Blue Ridge, Ga.                         Sydney Lea Adams of Deland, Fl.   Son:  Robert Adams of Blue Ridge, Ga.   Brother:  Denzel Adams and wife Rose of Waycross, Ga.   2 Sisters:  Eloise Davis of Fairfax, Ga.                  Lucy Fulmer of Douglasville, Ga.   Several nieces, nephews, and other relatives also survive. Graveside funeral services for Mr. Adams were held Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 11:00 A.M. at Axson Cemetery in Axson, Ga. with Rev. Jimmy Jordon officiating. Special music included “My Wish” and “Please Remember Me” presented by cd. The internment followed in the Axson Cemetery.   Serving as active pallbearers were: Larry Garrett, Steve Adams, Quill James, John Clayton, Anthony Nipper and D. J. Leavens.  Honorary pallbearers were active and retired officers of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Johnny Giddens.   Relihan Funeral Home in Pearson, Ga. is in charge of the arrangements.