The Obituary Section

Norman "Tony" Adams

Hickory, North Carolina

February 11, 2026

Norman James “Tony” Adams, 84, of Hickory, passed away February 12, 2026 at his residence.Born June 10, 1941, in Catawba County, he was the son of the late Jesse and Lucille Adams.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Adams, and his sister, Hilda Simmons.Tony was a proud US Navy Veteran, a classic car enthusiast, and a Biblical scholar. He was retired from the Caldwell County School System.Survivors include his wife, Pamela Adams, of the home; son, Mark Adams (Emily), of Hickory; daughter, Caroline Dees (Stephen), of Savannah, GA; brother Dick Adams (Gail), of Conover; and three grandchildren.A funeral service with military honors will be held Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 12:00 PM. Private burial will precede the funeral. The family will receive friends following the service in the Jack Bass Memorial Building.In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Carolina Caring.

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Sr Joseph B. Mercer

Hickory, North Carolina

Joseph B. Mercer, Sr., was born October 18, 1934, in Coburn, Virginia, and died peacefully in Hickory, North Carolina on February 12, 2026. Joe lived a life defined by leadership, competition, innovation, and faithful service to others.He graduated from Dobyns-Bennett High School in Kingsport, Tennessee, and attended East Tennessee State College. He proudly served in the U.S. Army Airborne, stationed in Germany and Beirut, Lebanon.Joe built an accomplished career in manufacturing, rising to serve as Vice President of Manufacturing for Millhiser (Richmond, VA) and Plastic Packaging (Hickory, NC). Known as a natural leader, he earned the respect of colleagues and employees alike. His innovative mind led to four patents in plastic bag design, a testament to both his technical skill and forward-thinking approach.Beyond his professional success, Joe lived a life of continual service. He served as Chairman of the Board of Catawba County Econoforce and Chairman of the Board of…

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