John Lee Adams, affectionately known as "Grizzley Adams," passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, in Newkirk, Oklahoma. Born on May 24, 1953, in Wellington, Kansas, John lived a life marked by a deep love for the outdoors and a deep devotion to his family and community.

John’s career included meaningful time with New Era (ADM) Milling, and he ventured north to Canada to be part of a Wheat Harvest Crew, experiences that reflected his strong work ethic and adventurous spirit. Beyond his professional pursuits, John was known for his hearty passion for hunting, fishing, garage sales, auctions, and gun shows. He was also known for his favorite saying, “I Swear”!

He was a man who took great pride in teaching essential outdoor skills to the younger generations. One of his proudest accomplishments was passing on his knowledge to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, teaching them how to hunt and fish, how to bait a hook, clean their catch, and even butcher a deer. These moments provided lasting bonds and cherished memories, echoing his dedication to family values and the preservation of tradition.

John’s beloved granddaughter Halle fondly recalls the happy mornings they shared before school: he would patiently brush and style her hair into neat ponytails topped with a bow. He was always deliberate and gentle with this routine, a reflection of his loving nature. After school, a highlight would be hearing John sing lively tunes like "Wild Thing" or "She'll Be Coming Around the Mountain" as a warm welcome home. These joyful recollections paint a picture of a grandfather whose affection was expressed in small but meaningful ways.

John was married to the love of his life, Arnetta Marie (Macklin) Adams for 53 beautiful years. Together, they nurtured a large and loving family always having a home full of children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

John is survived by his devoted wife, Arnetta, and their four children: Jamie Riddick, Julie Coppinger, Jeramy Adams, and Jason Adams. His sixteen grandchildren Carl and Karisma (Emeryn and Emilia), Dylan Riddick, Hannah Adams (Jaxon), Halle Adams, Hollee Adams, Hayley Adams, Joselyn Adams, Calum Adams, Callie Adams, Autumn Coppinger (Zaylon), Cami Coppinger, Dayton and Kelcy Godfry (Evelyn), Cherokee Coppinger, Holdyn Coppinger, Tristin Adams, Ripplyn Adams, sister Deb Walker, A. C. Kans, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Darlene (Baker) Adams; his father, Delbert Adams; and his brother.

A memorial service to honor John Lee Adams’s life will be held on June 26, 2026, at Rise Up Church, located at 201 S Walnut Avenue, Newkirk, Oklahoma. Immediately following the service, an inurnment will take place at Newkirk City Cemetery on Fork Road in Newkirk.