The Birmingham and Marietta communities are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Grace Adams, a compassionate and dedicated emergency room nurse at UAB Medicine, who tragically passed away. Grace was just beginning to make a lasting impact in the world of healthcare, and her sudden death has left family, friends, colleagues, and patients in deep sorrow.
Grace Adams began her career as an Emergency Room RN at UAB Medicine on July 3, 2023. Though her time in the role was brief, she made a powerful impression on both her coworkers and the countless lives she touched through her care. Known for her calm presence in chaotic moments, Grace’s commitment to nursing was rooted in her desire to help others during their most vulnerable times. Her ability to offer comfort, empathy, and clinical excellence in high-stress environments made her an invaluable part of the ER team.

Born and raised in Marietta, Georgia, Grace attended Joseph Wheeler High School before going on to study at The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). During her time at UAB, she not only honed her medical skills but also formed lifelong friendships and connections that helped shape her personal and professional path. Her strong work ethic and deep sense of responsibility were evident throughout her studies and continued into her nursing career.
Grace’s passing is an unimaginable loss to those who knew and loved her. She is remembered by her family, including her beloved mother, Ellen Pruit Adams, as a vibrant, kind-hearted woman with a radiant smile and a deep sense of purpose. She approached life with warmth, intelligence, and a passion for service. Her friends describe her as someone who always showed up for others — whether it was a shoulder to lean on, a voice of reason, or a source of encouragement.
The cause of Grace Adams’ death has not been publicly disclosed, and the family has requested privacy as they navigate this painful time. What remains unquestioned is the immense void left by her absence and the legacy of care and compassion she leaves behind.
Outside of her professional life, Grace was known for her love of animals, her close-knit relationships with friends, and her devotion to family. She often spoke of her gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the healthcare field, especially at UAB Medicine, where she believed she was fulfilling her calling.
As her loved ones grieve, they also celebrate the life she lived — one marked by kindness, strength, and a fierce dedication to helping others. In honor of her memory, colleagues at UAB Medicine and members of the local nursing community have expressed their condolences and are organizing tributes to recognize her contributions.
Grace Adams may have left this world too soon, but her impact — especially on those she cared for and those who knew her — will not be forgotten. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as a bright light in the lives she touched.