Source: http://www.labbymemorial.com/index.cfm

James O. Adams
(January 19, 1928 - April 13, 2011)

James O. Adams, 83, founder of Adams Jewelry in DeRidder, LA, passed away on Wednesday, April 13, 2011, at Beauregard Memorial Hospital in DeRidder, LA

James, the youngest of nine children, was born January 19, 1928, to Edgar and Anna Adams in Pleasant Hill, LA. He joined the United States Navy at the age of 18 and served aboard a repair ship. While aboard the ship, he became ill, was diagnosed with tuberculosis, and survived partial removal of one lung. Upon returning to his parent's home, which was now in DeRidder, LA, he met and married his wife of 60 years, Amy Joyce Cooley, daughter of Bertha and Talmage Cooley.

Once married, James pursued career retraining offered by the Veteran's Administration and he discovered a career that accommodated his physical disability and his love to repair; Horology (watch repair) and Jewelry Repair. He attended technical school in Paris, TX to become a Horologist and in Natchitoches, LA to become a Jeweler. Upon completing school, James initially opened his watch repair business in the corner of his brother-in-law's barber shop, Cooley's Barber Shop, in Lake Charles, LA. In 1968, James moved his family and business to DeRidder, LA, where he opened Adams Watch Repair (later renamed Adams Jewelry) beside his home in the country. He served the DeRidder and surrounding area until his retirement in 2000. His business and legacy are lovingly continued by his daughter, Mary and son-in-law, Allen Maddox.

James was a loving and devoted husband and father, who lived his life caring for his family and serving the community through his business. He treasured his customers and counted them as friends.

James is survived by his wife, Amy Joyce Cooley Adams; two daughters, Susan Adams and Mary Maddox and husband Allen of DeRidder and one brother, J. B. Adams of Shreveport. James is proceeded in death by his parents, two sisters and five brothers.

Graveside service will be held for Mr. Adams on Friday, April 15, 2011,10:00 AM at Beauregard Cemetery, DeRidder, LA, under the direction of Labby Memorial Funeral Home of DeRidder. Minister will be Rev. Jerome Hayes. Visitation will begin on Thursday, April 14, 2011, 5 PM until 9 PM at Labby Memorial Funeral Home.