Kendall Hicks Adams, lifelong resident of Polk County, passed away on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at his residence in Delano, TN. He was born September 29, 1945 to parents Hicks and Reathel Adams in Reliance, TN where he resided most of his life.

While in Reliance he co-owned and operated Adams Rafting and Reliance Fly and Tackle for several years. After retiring as a truck driver from Roadway Express, he spent most of his time outdoors. There he could be found in his rocking chair talking to his various friends, gardening, or working on the hit and miss engines he enjoyed collecting.

Kendall was preceded in death by his parents listed above, and a sister, Cathy Dalton, of Reliance.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Doris “Cissy” Adams; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Arnold Hambright of Cleveland; beloved granddaughter, Cara Cummings of Knoxville; siblings, Henrietta Shadden of Tellico; Phyllis McDonald of Charleston, TN and Steve Adams and his wife, Deneice Adams of Tellico, along with several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, August 10, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the chapel of Bordwine Funeral Home with son-in-law, Rev. Arnold Hambright officiating.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday prior to the service.

Family and friends will assemble at 4:30 p.m., Friday, August 21, 2026 in Green Hill Cemetery for the committal service. 

He will be missed by all who knew him.