Frank Edward Adams Sr, 81, of Marion, Indiana died Wednesday, July 8th, 2020 following an extended illness.

     Frank was born on February 8, 1939 in Wise County, VA to Willie & Clara Adams who preceded him in death. Frank grew to adulthood in the Derby Coal Mining Camp in Appalachia, Virginia. He served in the United States Marine Corp for three years, and married Nancy Sessoms Adams Thomas on June 6, 1964. Their marriage of 28 years brought forth their three surviving children, daughters Julia Ferrell, Indianapolis, IN and Heather (Jim) Rogers, Hartford City, IN and son F. Edward (Elizabeth) Adams Jr., Jonesboro, IN.

     Frank is preceded in death by former wife Nancy; wife Teresa Jean whom he married on July 13, 2001 and his infant granddaughter Isabelle. Born fifth of 12 children, Frank is also preceded in death by brothers Billy Ray, Carl, and Echol; sisters, June, Louise, and Patricia; and an infant brother. Survivors include brothers, James Adams, Lee County, VA and David (Brenda) Adams, Gray, TN; sisters, Linda Scott, Wise County, VA and Darlene Blair, Wise County, VA; grandchildren Joseph, Maxon (Mandy), Brooke, Samuel and Lilian; many nieces and nephews, and two great-grandchildren.

     In his early adulthood, Frank traveled the entire countryside of the United States residing in various states including California, Nevada and Maryland. He knew no stranger as he traveled and met many friends. Frank returned home to the hills of Big Stone Gap Virginia from the US Marine Corps when his father suffered severe injury in a coal mining accident. Following an industrial surge, Frank relocated to Gas City, Indiana, and began working at Fisher Body, Marion Indiana. He took residence with his wife and child in Jonesboro, IN. From there he would raise his three children.

     Professionally Frank owned and operated Adams Parts & Service, Jonesboro, IN, and worked at the DANA Corporation, Marion, IN for 34 years. 

     Frank was an avid car fan with an extensive knowledge of cars. Owning many muscle cars in his life, Frank could often be found racing, repairing, driving, modifying, or talking about cars. He was also a dedicated fan of the NHRA US Nationals and NASCAR and was a member of the United Steel Workers Union.

    Graveside services for the family will be held at the American Legion Cemetery, Big Stone Gap, VA on July 13, 2020 at 11:00 AM with Dr. Roy Smith officiating.  The family will meet at the funeral home by 10:20 AM to travel in procession to the cemetery.

    Gilliam Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Adams family.