Gary Joe and a friend, John Gallman went duck hunting at Lake Ouachita on January 2, 1983. A pilot flying overhead saw them in the water with the boat circling around them. By the time the pilot was able to get help, Gary and John had drowned. John's body was found within a short time, but Gary's was not recovered until October. A memorial service had been held at the time of his disappearance, so a graveside service was held at Pine Crest Memorial Park in Little Rock when his body was finally recovered.

Gary worked for Architectural Woodworking, which specialized in building custom designed fine cabinetry and furniture, architectural restorations, and custom interior finish work using raised paneling. He helped build the ornate bars at the former two Black Eyed Pea Restaurants in Little Rock. He built a large wooden rocking giraffe that was entered into a contest at the Arkansas Arts Center, and later found its permanent home at Pickles Gap Crafts Village in Conway, Arkansas.

Gary was know for his thoughtfulness, honesty, sincereity and loyalty. He will be remembered for his love of the outdoors, as he was most happy in this element. Also for his venturesome stirit, creative talents and skill, and his love and zest for life. Gary died a death most befitting of his love for God's nature and its beauty.

Gary was engaged to Mary Rotten, who was the special lady that he had finally found and who made him happy. Gary was also survived by his father, Don G. Adams of Litle Rock, his stepfather and mother, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur C. Page Jr. of Little Rock; a brother William Vance Adams and a sister Rachel Ann Adams of Hawthorne, California; a sister Lisa Adams and half sister Debrah Page of Little Rock; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. W W "Bill" Adams and Mrs. W C Page of Benton; Uncle Wilburn C Adams of Conway, and cousins Jack Adams and Lou Jane Wills of Conway.