Capt. Pat A Adams' Obituary
Captain Pat Alexander Adams, passed peacefully on February 7, 2026, at the age of 95.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on June 18, 1930, Pat grew up in the city he would spend his life serving.
Shortly after graduating from Tech Highschool in 1948, Pat enlisted in the Army, graduating second in his class. Continuing his father’s legacy, he joined the Memphis Police Department, beginning a distinguished 32-year career that culminated in the rank of Captain. He often enjoyed recalling the time he arrested Elvis Presley and once saved children from an overturned schoolbus. He was deeply passionate about protecting and serving the people of Memphis.
Drawn by his love for aviation and civic duty, he began his radio career as a helicopter traffic reporter in 1967. Over the years, he evolved into a cherished Memphis institution—known affectionately as "Captain Pat"—whose familiar voice guided countless commuters through morning and afternoon rush-hours while brightening their day with his humor and light-hearted commentary.
He is preceded in death by his first wife Mary, and his second wife, Thelma. He is survived by his two sons, Barry Adams (Amy) and Greg Adams; his grandson, Brian Adams, and great-granddaughter, Molly; his step-granddaughter, Lidia (Rusty) and her five children.
Captain Pat Alexander Adams leaves behind a legacy of service, kindness, and community spirit that touched countless lives in Memphis. He will be remembered not only as a decorated police captain, pioneering traffic reporter, and avid Memphis State football fan, but as a true gentleman who flew high and served humbly.
“I’ve been on the air for over 45 years, never been late. To edit a General Douglas MacArthur phrase-Old traffic reporters never die-they just fade away. Captain Pat Adams signing off.”
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