Former Hamilton County Commissioner Curtis Adams passed away on Tuesday, July 2 at the age of 86.

Adams, served on the Hamilton County Commission representing District 8 from 1988 to 2010. He was the longest serving commissioner in its history.

After leaving the commission, Adams briefly served the citizens of East Ridge as the City Manager in the Mike Steele administration, and was a appointed by Mayor Brent Lambert to the city’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority.

Adams worked for the Chattanooga News-Free Press for 41 years, working his way up from “dock boy” to the position of circulation manager.

Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger released a statement on the passing of Adams.

“Curtis Adams was a dedicated public servant who loved working for the betterment of his district and the county. I was fortunate to serve with Curtis on the Hamilton County Commission and appreciated his courage and commitment to always do the right thing.

“This community has seen great progress because of his leadership that helped pave the way for new school buildings and the great economic development that we enjoy today.

“We still laugh in the office about some of his antics including the day Curtis brought a wheelbarrow into the commission room to show his support for a wheel tax. Curtis was a character who will be remembered for his commitment to the people of District 8, his leadership and his enduring friendships from both his newspaper career and his distinguished public service.”

Funeral arrangements are through Heritage Funeral Home on Battlefield Parkway in Ft. Oglethorpe. The family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Services are scheduled for Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with Rev. Paul McDaniel and Bill Hullander officiating. Internment will be in Lakewood Memorial Gardens South.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.