Feb 17, 2015
The U.S. rice industry is deeply saddened by the passing of Lee Adams, 74, of College Station, Texas, on Friday, February 13. Lee Adams was one of the industry's most stalwart and respected leaders.
His many leadership roles included dedicated service on the boards of USA Rice organizations and The Rice Foundation. He was a past officer of the USA Rice Council and served as chairman of the USA Rice Federation from 2004 to 2006.
Adams was a long-time board member and past chairman of the USA Rice Millers' Association, which in 2011 named him a recipient of the RMA Distinguished Service Award, the organization's highest honor.
He also was a strong supporter of the Rice Leadership Development Program, which identifies and nurtures young industry leaders.
"Lee was adamant that we have young leaders moving up through the ranks to sustain the strength of our industry's organizations," said Chris Crutchfield, current RMA chairman and a leadership program graduate. "In my professional and personal life, Lee served as both a mentor and father figure, and I know he had the same influence on many others in our industry."
"Lee exemplified statesmanship and his legacy in the rice industry will be long lasting," said USA Rice Federation President & CEO Betsy Ward. "His passion and commitment inspired us all."
A memorial mass service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 20, at St. Laurence Catholic Church, 3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the 12th Man Foundation, P.O. Box 2800, College Station, TX 77841, or to St. Laurence Church, 3100 Sweetwater Blvd., Sugar Land, TX 77479. An online guestbook is available for messages to the family.