08/13/2024
In fond memory and deepest sympathy:
An excellent friend passed away on Sunday. Apostle James Allen Adams, my father, friend, and mentor, pushed me over and over again to find my purpose in life. I will never forget meeting him at the age of fifteen, my life crumbling around me, full of hate and despair, thinking I had nothing worth living for. Apostel Adams saw the good in me and the man he knew I would become.
Hearing the news of his death was unexpected, yet I felt a sense of sadness and calm remembering all the things we spent hours talking about and all of the things he taught me about the Lord. After my elder brother’s death, I was an angry young man full of rage without a will to live and wanting to take my anger out on anything and anyone.
“Prop,” as I was so fond of calling him, was presiding over a revival in Fort Myers, Florida, when we first met. After service, he seemed tired and tried to leave, surrounded by many members of the congregation who just wanted to be in his presence. I stood off to the side, looking at the way he took the time to say goodnight to everyone he encountered.
I was one of the musicians at my church, and at the time, I was attending church because I didn’t know what else to do with myself. Bishop Dampier, another father figure I had in my life, spent time with me, and it was through him that I ended up meeting Prop.
Meeting Prop was the highlight of my life. It changed my life for the better. He taught me how to care more about others and how it was God’s will for me to be all that I could be in ministry and life. He showed me the importance of finding purpose and seeing the good in others.
Prop had a remarkable way of connecting with people and helping them discover their true potential. One specific example that stands out is how he would take the time to mentor young people in the church.
Through these interactions, he would share his own experiences and offer guidance tailored to each individual’s journey. He also encouraged others by leading by example. Prop was deeply involved in youth ministry projects, showing that finding purpose comes from serving others. He would often say, “Your purpose is not just about you; it’s about how you can impact the lives of those around you.”
Prop’s dedication to ministry indeed left a lasting impact on everyone he encountered. His ability to inspire others to find their purpose through service and compassion is a testament to his remarkable character.
I loved him and will miss him dearly. Rest in peace, Prop.
