Paris, Tenn.–Long-time Paris businessman James L. “Jim” Adams passed away Sunday, January 3, 2021 at Henry County Medical Center. He was 84.
Adams started as a stock boy in his teens and in 1965 opened the IGA store in Paris in partnership with former grocer Lee Greer.
Over time, Adams owned numerous IGA stores in Tennessee and Kentucky and branched out into ownership of Sav-A-Lot stores.
And many remember the Jim Adams Store on Mineral Wells Ave. which included a pharmacy, cafeteria, deli, florist shop and bakery.
Family members said Adams was a hardworking man who always placed others before himself. As a member of First United Methodist Church, he enjoyed working with the food pantry. Family members said, “He also worked tirelessly to help our community grow, and always strived to lend a helping hand where needed. In addition to his being a longtime businessman, he was a hero to his children and grandchildren.”
Adams received several honors in his lifetime, including being named the Chamber of Commerce’s Man of the Year. He also served as Chamber President.
Adams is survived by his wife of 63 years, Pat Radford Adams; and daughters, Cindy (Dana) Tillett, Jan (Steve) Odom and Pam (Andy) Richardson. “Papa” also leaves behind his grandchildren, Natalie (Jason) Raines, Chase Tillett, Kristan (Jeremy) Lindsey, Dylan (April) Phillips, Zach Odom, Cassy (Kurt) Mintz, Elizabeth (Matthew) McCrory, Marshall (Rachel) Petty and 13 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Robbins.
Jim was born in the Osage community to Louie and Evelyn Adams, now deceased. An active member of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club, he was also an avid supporter of the 4-H Club Junior Livestock Show and Sale.
Ridgeway Funeral Home is handling arrangements. A graveside funeral service will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park on Wednesday, January 6th at 11:00 a.m.
Grandsons, Marshall, Chase, Dylan, Zach, along with Jeremy, Matthew and Jason will serve as pallbearers. David Sullivan, Jerry Bowden, Steve Greer, Danny Robbins, Brad Robbins and Kay Harber will serve as honorary pallbearers. Our family would also like to thank Martha, Nadine and Chris for always being there for Dad.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like to suggest a donation to Henry County Helping Hand, First Methodist Church, or any community service organization of your choice. They ask that you wear a mask when attending the service.