Malcolm Franklin Adams Sr. age 91 of Keystone Heights

With deep love and sadness, we would like to announce the homegoing of Malcolm Franklin Adams, Sr. He was a devoted husband, father, poppy, and friend. Malcolm departed on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at his home.

Malcolm was born in the little town of Olustee, FL at his home on September 24, 1934. He built a life centered around faith, family, service, and hard work.

He grew up in Jacksonville, FL. At the age of 18 he enlisted in the US Navy. During his enlistment, he sailed on the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier touring the world as a Gunner's Mate. He also spent some time on a submarine. He fulfilled his 8 year enlistment and was discharged honorably.

After returning to Jacksonville, he met Thea Marie Tate. They lived in the same neighborhood. They fell in love and married a year later at the ages of 21 and 16.

Malcolm worked at Benjamin Moore Paint factory in Jacksonville for 6 years. During this time, he and Thea went on a weekend fishing trip to Keystone Heights. They discovered a beautiful little lake, then surrounded by woods called Paradise Lake. Malcolm promised Thea to begin attending church. They found a little country church in Theresa, FL that they joined and while attending there they both gave their lives to Jesus. They raised their 3 children in the home on the lake.

Malcolm was employed at Clay Electric Cooperative for a short period of time. He then enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard. He worked as a Heavy Equipment mechanic at Camp Blanding. He stayed there until he retired.

Malcolm's interests included enjoying his North Carolina cabin, traveling, carpentry, running, water skiing, and enjoying his 1952 Chevrolet truck, that was fondly named "Betsy."

Malcolm enjoyed an adventurous retirement with Thea. He was very much involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren.

Malcolm is survived by his faithful and loving wife of 70 years Thea Marie Adams, his children Sandy Hammond (Gerald), Mal Jr. (Lisa), Joy Sapp (Steve), 6 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents Roy and Mattie Adams, his brother Clifton Adams, and his infant daughter Helen Marie Adams.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Freedom Baptist Missions Fund 7207 State Road 21, Keystone Heights, Florida 32656 and Community Hospice of Florida 4266 Sunbeam Road, Jacksonville, FL 32257.

The family will receive friends at Freedom Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 10:00 am. Funeral services will begin at 11:00 am with Pastor Jason B Stephens officiating. Interment will follow at Hope Baptist Cemetery. 

Arrangements are under the care of JONES-GALLAGHER FUNERAL HOME, 340 E. Walker Dr., Keystone Heights, FL 32656. (352) 473-3176. Jonesgallagherfh.com