Obituary of David Adams

David “Big Dave” Adams transitioned from this earthly plain on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 at the Atlanticare Regional Medical Center in Pomona, New Jersey. He was born on April 10, 1947 in Danville, Virginia. At an early age he moved to Elizabeth, New Jersey. He received his formal education in the public schools of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Later his family moved to South Jersey settling in Cardiff, New Jersey. He graduated from Oakcrest High School in 1965. He was employed at Chalfonte-Haddon Hall Hotel as a chef. Big Dave also worked with his father in the family owned business, Adams Janitorial Services, which serviced many car dealerships and businesses in the area. He worked in the janitorial department at the Slaybaugh School and the Atlantic City Racetrack. Additionally, Dave worked at Betty Bacharach as a therapy assistant, and was lastly employed as a home healthcare provider. Big Dave was the co-owner and operator of Ohio Avenue Grocery and Deli for many years. He attended Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in Pleasantville, New Jersey, under the late Reverend Thomas Whitfield. Later he joined Second Baptist Church in Atlantic City and served as the president of the Inspirational Choral Ensemble for a season, and the personal driver of the pastor, the late Reverend I.S. Cole. In 2014, he became a member of St. James A.M.E. Church of Mays Landing, New Jersey where he served until his death. He loved gospel music and critiquing the culinary delicacies at different dining establishments. His road trips always included checking out suggested places to eat. His favorite past times were washing cars and talking to anyone who would listen. He is preceded in death by his parents, William and Gracie (Calland) Adams; one brother, and four sisters. He is survived by his companion and caregiver, Mary L. Johnson; two sons, Elder Kera Johnson of Raleigh, North Carolina, and Minister Dathan Wright of Charleston, South Carolina; two aunts, cousins, nephews, nieces, godchildren, and a host of friends. Funeral services and burial are private.