Don William Adwell

Don William Adwell

Our family announces the passing of our beloved father, Don William Adwell, who quietly moved into Heaven on November 5, 2020 at the age of 88.  He was well-known by all for his gregarious, spirited voice, immense presence, and firm handshake. 

Don is survived by his dear wife, Marion Cooksey Adwell, of 59 years; Sons: Don Wesley Adwell (Tammy Saladino Adwell), Mark Atticus Adwell (Jennifer Heimbach Adwell), Stanley Keene Adwell (Christiane Barros-Adwell). Grandchildren: Weston Gabrielle Adwell, Stadler Keene Adwell, Shane Wesley Adwell, Maya Payton Adwell and Isabella Reva Adwell.  His family extends to his pre-deceased sister’s children: Cindy, Karen, Pam, Larry, David, Ted, and families.  He is also survived by his closest friends Ben and Sheila Bancroft of Birmingham, Alabama, whose frequent visits and annual calls on their respective birthdays spanned over 6 decades.

Born August 12, 1932 in Chattanooga, TN, the son of William A. and Gertrude Adwell (pre-deceased). He was raised in Birmingham, Alabama, where he would work in their family business, The Adwell Bakery and Catering Co.  Don attended Jacksonville State University and the University of Alabama at Birmingham (Kappa Sigma Fraternity), where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. He was a U.S. Navy Veteran who honorably served his country during the Korean War as a baker and cook from 7/1/1952 – 7/1956. He traveled the globe often blessing us with his stories from abroad.

After marriage in 1961 to his wife whom he affectionately called “his sweet baby angel,” they moved to Tampa, Florida to make their permanent home and raise their family.  Don traveled the southeast United States as a top salesman for Peavey Co. Flour Mills and Diamond Match Company.

In 1976, Marion started Outa Ma Tree Florist. Don joined her a few years later and they managed it together for 33 years with their sons. Outa Ma Tree Florist became one of the largest florists in Tampa during that time. 

Their family business generously supported the local community, churches and residents with many having Outa Ma Tree’s flowers present in their lives spanning multiple generations. They helped bring beauty and joy to births, proms, weddings, special occasions and funerals, thus weaving their beautiful work into the community and daily lives of so many.

Don led his family with the principle of family first and unyielding love. He set aside everything for Marion, his Queen, whom he cherished with every breath. He sacrificed and gave all of himself to his sons and grandchildren, always wanting to be with them above all else.

Don will forever be remembered for his firm handshake. It was his way of sharing himself, his energy and desire for connection (his hug) through his firm, lasting grip. His massive hands brought instant love and security. 

We will all miss the feel of your hand, your booming voice, and your generous smile. We are deeply respective of your hard work, ethic and saintly devotion in support and care for our mother.  His endearing expressions are often repeated by his children, grandchildren and those close to the family, which keeps him near and present beyond his passing.

The family has decided under current conditions to hold a private service on Friday, Nov. 20th, at Bay Pines VA National Cemetery.  Memorial donations may be made in lieu of flowers to:

Alzheimer’s Association (Memorial/Honor Gift, Don and Marion Adwell)

Donate Online: act.alz.org/donate (Address: Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601)
 

The Shriners Hospitals for Children (Memorial Gift, Don Adwell)

Donate Online: donate.lovetotherescue.org/giving (Address: Shriners Hospitals for Children, c/o Donor Relations, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607)
 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Don William Adwell, please visit our floral store.