Opal Adams

Opal Elizabeth Adams, 96, of Dallas, formerly of Cape Girardeau, passed away Wednesday, Aug. 25, 2010, at The Forum at Park Lane in Dallas.

She was born Sept. 18, 1913, in Jackson, to Oliver and Lena Voges Ruppel. She and John A. "Ox" Adams were married Sept. 11, 1942.

Adams attended Jackson public schools. Her father died during the flu epidemic in 1918, and she was raised by her mother.

During World War II they resided in Washington, D.C., where she proudly served her country working for the Navy Department while her husband served in the Coast Guard.

Following the war they returned to Missouri, initially residing in St. Louis. They later moved to Cape Girardeau, where John was head basketball coach at Southeast Missouri State University. From the early 1950s through the early 1970s they owned and operated successful retail businesses in both Cape Girardeau and Columbia, Mo. Opal later worked for Sears Roebuck until retiring.

Following her husband's death in 1985, she moved to Dallas in 1987 to be closer to her son and his family. She was a member of Preston Hollow Methodist Church in Dallas.

Survivors include a son, Richard L. Adams of Dallas; three grandchildren, Audrey, Adelaide and Wilson Adams.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband and a sister, Lorene.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to service time Saturday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Chapel in Cape Girardeau.

The funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at the chapel, with the Rev. Tom Sullenger officiating. Burial will be in Cape County Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to American Cancer Society.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.