Barbara Ellen Adams was born in Atlanta, Georgia, to Eastern Airline pilot, Julian Bertram Adams, and Nowoka Mary Bell Colston Adams on January 22, 1948. On November 21, 2020, she went to where the music is perfect, and probably passed through the pearly gates on the arm of Elvis on her way to a reunion with her mother, father and brother, Steven Julian Adams.
Because of the Orange Grove facility, the Adams moved to Chattanooga, in the mid 1950s. Barbara “grew up” in the superb atmosphere of Orange Grove and the counselors of Double G Camp. She spent many years in the “workshop” (formally known as “The Training Center”) learning different skills that benefitted her as well as other entities that engaged Orange Grove for mutual benefits.
In the 1980s, Barbara entered the most excellent and nurturing environment of the Orange Grove Residency Program and remained there for approximately 20 years.
Those that got to know Barbara recognized they were in the presence of a master manipulator who loved to listen to music and rock in her rocking chair. She successfully wore out a 45 record of Duane Eddy’s “Guitar Man”. And, like most music aficionados, she liked to listen to her music nice and loud.
She also had an extensive collection of change purses, stuffed animals, and rubber balls that were constant companions.
Bad Barb supremely enjoyed getting your reaction and or response when she dipped into her repertoire of bad words.
Barbie was a simple soul loaded with personality, and like most of us, was usually a real joy to be around. Nonetheless, at times she would surprise everyone with unusually keen insight, and, in her own unique way, taught many of us some of life’s most important lessons
She was a good daughter as well as a good sister.
In lieu of flowers, any donation to Orange Grove is a true blessing – www.orangegrove.org