Dr. James Wayne Adams, Jr.

Dr. James Wayne Adams, Jr. passed away peacefully at his home in Midlothian, VA on May 21st, 2026 at the age of 91. He was born on December 26th, 1934 in Halifax County. Wayne served as a beloved dentist in South Boston where he dedicated his time to helping generations of patients for over 40 years. The relationships formed through his dental practice extended to his staff and other dentists, many of whom he personally trained with a caring and compassionate approach.

He obtained a B.S. degree from William & Mary and went on to pursue a Doctorate of Dental Surgery degree from the Medical College of Virginia (VCU). Wayne’s commitment to knowledge and personal growth reflected his dedication to being the best dentist he could be. He was also committed to his country, as he served in the Army National Guard for five years, six months and one day. Outside of his professional endeavors, Wayne was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church, where he served as an elder. His love and involvement for the community of South Boston extended to The Prizery, where he was instrumental in the reimagining of the building, helping with renovations and fundraising. One of Wayne’s proudest accomplishments was his success on the golf course where he spent countless hours enjoying the fairways, greens and tap room of the Halifax Country Club.

Wayne was surrounded by love from his family and friends throughout his life. He is preceded in death by his adoring wife of 64 years, Janet Lloyd Adams, who stood by his side with unwavering support throughout their many years together. He is also preceded by his parents, James Wayne Adams, Sr. and Dorothy Evans Adams, as well as his sisters, Dorothy “Dot” Adams Fuller and Elizabeth “Bet” Adams Bullock. Wayne leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness: Daughter Anne Livingston Adams of Wilmington, NC and her daughter, Brooke Adkins of Yulee, FL, and son Huntington Adkins of Raleigh, NC; Son James “Jay” Wayne Adams, III, and his daughter, Gwen and sons Alex and Andrew, all of Midlothian, VA; Niece, Mary Lloyd Griesser and her daughters Elizabeth and Kate, all of Charlotte, NC.

A memorial service will be held at First Presbyterian Church, Saturday, August 8, 2026, 2:00 PM with Jim Luedtke officiating. For memorials, please consider donating to First Presbyterian Church (800 North Main Street, South Boston, VA 24592) or the Halifax Prizery (700 Bruce Street, South Boston, VA 24592).

Online condolences may be directed to www.powellfuneralinc.com or by visiting their Facebook page.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, 1603 Wilborn Ave., South Boston, VA