Before their untimely death in an auto accident in November of 1971, Mimi and Lee Adams worked tirelessly to improve Jacksonville's environment.

The paintings of Lee Adams reveal the natural beauty he and his family would strive to protect. Mimi Adams fought actively to toughen pollution standards for the safety of her family and her community.

In 1972, Mayor Hans Tanzler instituted the Mimi and Lee Adams Environmental Awards to honor their memories and to recognize other Jacksonville residents, individually and in groups who have worked to preserve and enhance their community.