Samuel Wendell Adams

Wendell, as he was known by all, was born December 18, 1944, in Clio, Alabama, the son of Sam and Ruth Adams.

Wendell graduated from Troy State with a BS in Art Education, and received his Master’s in Art Education from the University of Alabama. He served a year of active duty in the National Guard, and ten reserve years in the National Guard Reserve.

After teaching in Albany for three years he made his way to LaGrange, accepting a job at West Georgia RESA as an art consultant. In 1976 he began teaching art at LaGrange High School, and later became the Graphic Arts Coordinator and Teacher. He retired from LaGrange High School in Troup County Georgia in 2000.

Wendell directed and produced The Dinner Theatre which was performed by the Drama Department. Everyone at LaGrange High and the LaGrange community were fans of The Dinner Theatre and the Faculty Follies. Students were performers as well as carpenters building the sets for the Dinner Theater and the Faculty Follies. The Follies featured musical performances from administrators, teachers, and staff from all the LaGrange City Schools. Students were in the band for the Follies. Wendell made sure students were included in these endeavors. The Follies provided scholarships for students pursuing degrees in education.

It was Wendell’s Graphics Arts students who prepared most of the system’s printing needs. From tee shirts to notebooks Wendell and his students were ready to serve the system. Wendell was a true Renaissance Man, a cultured man who was knowledgeable, educated, and proficient in a wide range of fields. His passions included a love of teaching, playing bridge (achieving the title of Life Masters in Bridge), traveling, cooking, gardening, and designing and building (including the home in LaGrange). Wendell’s “touch” added elegance and detail to every occasion.

Wendell is survived by his husband, Alan Baggett who shared 39 wonderful years together; his brother, Myers Adams (Alicia) of Wildwood, Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Charles Adams (Mary).

He touched and influenced many lives with his talents and his kindness. Wendell’s life was fulfilled with Alan by his side as they loved and complimented each other; their greatest joy was creating the happiness of each.

A “Celebration of Life” for Wendell will be held later in LaGrange, Georgia.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shlagrange.com for the Adams family.