Billy Buford Adams

Billy Buford Adams, a beloved musician and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026, at Baptist DeSoto Hospital in Southaven, Mississippi. Born on August 29, 1936, in Water Valley, Mississippi, Billy's life was marked by an enduring passion for music, family, friends, and fellowship.

Funeral services for Billy will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 23, 2026 in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the interment to follow at Mt. Liberty Cemetery in Water Valley, MS. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 a.m. prior to the service.

As a child, Billy moved to the Locke Station Community where he later started his own family. As a youngster, he enjoyed playing both basketball and baseball. Later he even coached a softball team. He attended Goodway United Pentecostal Church in his younger years. Before his retirement, Billy had a long and dedicated career at M Hart in Clarksdale, where he was known for his hard work and commitment.

Music was a big part of Billy’s life. For over six decades, he delighted audiences with his gifted guitar playing and charismatic performances as the leader of his cherished band, "Billy Adams and the Blazers." Among his many accomplishments, Billy was particularly proud of performing at Graceland. Beyond performing, he generously shared his skills with others, teaching guitar to numerous local musicians.

Billy had an adventurous spirit and a love for travel. He could rarely be found sitting idle at home. Tales of his lively escapades are fondly remembered. Billy also had a great love for his family. A cherished tradition among them involved shooting fireworks together at Christmas, a joyous occasion that often-stirred excitement so great that the local fire or sheriff’s departments were called, creating lasting memories filled with love and laughter.

He was a loving father to Myra Adams, Melinda Alford (Ken), and Mike Adams (Cindy). Billy was a proud grandfather to Michael Adams, Jeremy Adams, Joseph Adams (Tiffany), Amber Griffin (Bret), Cody Alford, and Rachel Sellers (Brandan)—and a host of great-grandchildren who carry forward his legacy. He is also survived by one sister, Agnes Shivers (Paul) and numerous nieces and nephews. Also dear to Billy was his special friend, Jane Brewer, who stood by his side with kindness and companionship.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd Adams and Ida Mae Elizabeth Allen Adams, and his siblings LC Adams, JC Adams, Evelyn Adams, James Adams, Harold Adams, and Darrell Adams.