Denzil Lee Adams, 91, of Brazil, Indiana, passed away at his home on January 19, 2022.
Denzil was born on July 26, 1930, in Terre Haute, Indiana, the son of Merit and Helen (Newton) Adams. He graduated from State Laboratory High School in 1948 and from Indiana State Teachers College with a master’s degree in education. He served his country in the United States Air Force in Greenland and Alaska. Mr. Adams worked as a principal with Clay Community Schools at Pinkley Street School, Jackson Street School, and East Side Elementary School for 37 years. He was a member and long-time elder of Berea Christian Church, Brazil Rotary, Retired Teacher’s Association, and Clay County Community Foundation board member.
Many East Side students remember the yearly Elections unit that Mr. Adams developed. Grades 1-6 were divided into two political parties. They nominated, campaigned for and elected Representatives, Senators, a President and a Vice President. Some of these students went on to careers in law or politics and many have been active community members. The program won a national award.
After retiring from the schools, Mr. Adams began a videography business, Adams Video Productions. He enjoyed taping weddings, community events, and family activities for people all over.
Mr. Adams was preceded in death by his parents Merit and Helen Adams, his beloved wife Betty Adams, and a brother and sister-in-law Richard and Shirley Adams.
He is survived by his two children: Connie Adams (Martin White) and Edward Adams and wife Tobi; grandchildren: Matthew Louis Tanksley, Eric Scott Tanksley (Kelli), Caleb Sterling Adams, Isaac Gabriel Adams (April), Hillary Louise Roper (Mitch), Lyanna Araire Adams; great-grandchildren: Elise, Cora, Rowan, Teke, Daisy, Leo, and Miles; as well as many extended family members and friends.
Mr. Adams loved three things: He served his Heavenly Father and Jesus all of his life. He served in his churches in leadership positions, visited sick and shut-in people, and taught scripture in counseling and encouraging others. He loved his family dearly and was always there for them. His children considered him their touchstone when life brought difficulties. Thirdly he loved education. He spent his life educating students and teachers as well as family and friends. He passed on lessons he had learned. In later life he taught others the lessons he learned from his beloved pet cats and crows.
Visitation will be at Lawson-Miller Chapel, 1702 E. National Ave. Brazil, Indiana 47834, on Monday, January 24, 2022 from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Services will be at the funeral home, on Tuesday, at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Mark Gallagher officiating. Burial will follow at Clearview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Brazil Rotary Club P.O. Box 44 Brazil, Indiana 47834 or the Retired Teacher’s Association 2629 Waterfront Pkwy E Dr #105, Indianapolis, IN 46214.
Visit www.frenchfuneralhome.com to light a candle in his memory.