Joel McDonald Adams, 78, went home to be with the Lord Sunday, Sept 2, 2018 at Cartersville Medical Center following complications due to pulmonary fibrosis. He leaves his beloved wife of 55 years, Diana (Capps) Adams; his sons, Christopher Adams and Todd Adams; his daughter-in-law, Burnell Adams; his precious sister, Anne Vickery; four grandchildren, Caleb Adams, Austin Adams, Claire Adams, and Travis Adams. He also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews, sisters-in-law, friends and neighbors, and his adored cat, Mustard. Born and raised in Buford, the son of O.G. and Lillie Jane (Perkins) Adams, Mr. Adams lived in Georgia, Texas, and Michigan. In his early years, Mr. Adams delivered papers, telegrams, and prescriptions. Later he worked as soda jerk, and then at a marina on Lake Lanier where he once received a 25 cent tip from the Georgia Governor. Mr. Adams graduated from the University of North Georgia where he earned a double-major in Business and Military Science. He met the love of his life, Diana, in college and they married in 1963. After college, he entered full-time military service with the Army beginning as a tank unit commander, followed by many years in the Army Reserve where he graduated from the U.S. Army War College and later earned the rank of full Colonel. Additionally, Mr. Adams enjoyed a 33 year career at General Motors both in Georgia and Michigan. After retiring to Cartersville, Mr. Adams enjoyed time with family, antiquing, restoring antique chairs, vegetable gardening, his church, sharing his faith, and making friends. He was the first Chairman of the Cartersville Historic Preservation Commission. In his final years, Mr. Adams was lovingly devoted to the care of his wife. He was a member of Sam Jones Memorial United Methodist Church. Friends and family are welcome to attend the visitation on Saturday, September 8 from 6-8pm at Owen Funeral Home, 12 Collins Drive, Cartersville. A funeral service will be held Sunday, Sept 9 at 3pm at Sam Jones Memorial, 100 W Church Street, Cartersville. Those desiring may make contributions to Sam Jones UMC, Cartersville Ga; ServantCARE, Eufaula, Al; or to the charity of your choice in honor of Joel M. Adams. Please visit www.owenfunerals.com to leave condolences for the family. Owen Funeral Home, 12 Collins Dr., Cartersville, Ga., is honored to serve the family of Joel McDonald Adams.