Harry Mayhew McAdams, Hobbs, N.M.
HOBBS, N.M.
Sen. Harry Mayhew McAdams, father of Diane Gladow of Emporia, died Saturday, Jan. 5, 2008, at his home in Hobbs, N.M. He was 91.
He was elected to the New Mexico State Senate in 1970 and represented Lea County. He served 14 years. In 1982 the Harry McAdams State Park was dedicated, later ceded to the city of Hobbs and a memorial fund for the park was established. He was active in many civic affairs and for many years was chief operating officer of radio station KWEW in Hobbs, where he was known as the “voice of the Hobbs Eagles” for his play-by-play broadcasts of the high school athletic events. The football stadium press box is named in his honor.
During World War II, Mr. McAdams flew 59 combat missions as B-17 bombardier over Europe, Africa, the Balkans and the eastern Mediterranean area. For his service he was awarded several decorations, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple Heart and Air Medal with nine Oak Leaf Clusters. He remained in the Air Force Reserve until 1976, commanding the local unit for many years and retiring as a Lt. Colonel.
The funeral service and burial were at Hobbs.