Darrell Joseph Adams

Darrell Joseph Adams, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, passed away on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the age of 89. He was born on March 19, 1937, in Chackbay, Louisiana, the son of the late Eddie Adams and Ethel Peltier Adams. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Darrell’s life was marked by dedication both to his family and his community. Darrell was an administrator for the State of Louisiana Vocational Rehabilitation Program, a role in which he passionately helped adults with disabilities acquire professional skills. Beyond his work, Darrell was a steadfast supporter of the Special Olympics, worked with special needs youth, and coached youth football. He was also an avid card player, with a particular fondness for poker and gin rummy. The thrill of competitive play and the joy of socializing with local celebrities and friends alike brought him great pleasure. Though not the most skilled golfer, he enjoyed playing with family and friends. Golf was just the gateway to the real action on the card tables at Oak Knoll Country Club. Darrell was also a lifelong member of St. Joseph Church in Ponchatoula and a member of the Knight's of Columbus. Above all, Darrell cherished his time with his family. The love and joy he found in family gatherings were among the greatest pleasures of his life. Darrell will be remembered as a compassionate advocate, a devoted family man, and a friend to many.

Darrell is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley Carter Adams; sons, Jeffrey John Adams, Jason Darrell Adams (Andrea), Jay Edmond Adams, and Justin Henry Adams; grandchildren, Heather, Brittin, Lauren, Hayden, Trevor, Connor, Madison, Jensen, Morgan , Alexis, Olivia and Ace; great grandchildren, Ilsa, Eli, Hank, Deymien, Lucien, and Holden; siblings, Helen Muller, Kelley Adams, Annette Annison, and Ted Adams; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Darrell was preceded in death by his daughter, Janet Adams Robertson; and siblings, Elson Adams, Hulen Adams, Peggy Howes, Rowena Mitchell, Vincent Adams, and Vesta Adams.

Family and friends will be received at Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home, 100 W. Magnolia St., Ponchatoula, Louisiana 70454 on Saturday, June 6, 2026 from 9:00 am until the Funeral Service begins at 11:30 am, with Deacon Larry Melancon officiating.

Interment will follow at Ponchatoula Cemetery in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Darrell's memory to the Louisiana chapter of the Special Olympics at https://support.specialolympics.org/a/louisiana.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Harry McKneely & Son Funeral Home and Crematory of Hammond and Ponchatoula. An on-line guest book is available at www.harrymckneely.com.