Carlton Jay Adams, of Evans, Georgia, passed away on June 1, 2026, at the age of 88. Born onJuly 16, 1937, he was a loving spouse, father, and grandfather who lived a life devoted to education, family, faith, and a genuine curiosity about the world. A native of rural Pitt County, North Carolina, Carlton earned his bachelor's degree from East Carolina University, his master's degree from Florida State University, and his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Louisiana State University. He built a distinguished career in higher education, serving as professor of chemistry and later Associate Dean at Oxford College of Emory University. He retired from Piedmont University in Demorest, Georgia where he served as Dean.

Throughout his career, Carlton was a passionate advocate for learning and firmly believed that education was the key to opportunity, personal growth, and success. He found great fulfillment in counseling students toward their full potential. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Carlton embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He loved cooking and entertaining, hosting dinner parties fondly remembered for their warmth, lively conversation, and his hearty, unmistakable laugh. An avid traveler, he explored Turkey, China, South Africa, Thailand, Egypt, Brazil, Australia, and much of Europe.

His faith remained a guiding force throughout his life. He was an active member of the Episcopal Church and served his congregations faithfully, including Church of the Good Shepherd in Covington, Georgia; Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church in Clarkesville, Georgia; and The Holy Comforter in Martinez, Georgia. Through his church involvement, he shared his gifts of leadership, service, and compassion with the communities he loved.

Carlton was preceded in death by his parents, Tump and Polly Adams; sisters Juanita Parlett and Mavis Stocks; and wife Nancy Fleming Adams. He is survived by his spouse Louis Adams; children Christopher “Chris” Jay Adams, and Nancy (Cortlandt) Minnich; grandchildren Malcolm and Sarah Adams (mother, Karen Adams), Madison Johnston, and Carter Minnich; and four great-grandchildren. Carlton will be remembered for his intellect, generosity, kindness, and optimism — and by generations of students whose lives were enriched by his guidance and encouragement.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church in Clarkesville, GA, on June 27th at 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church or The Holy Comforter Episcopal Church.