David Richard McAdoo

Mr. David Richard McAdoo, 80, of Kernersville passed away on October 7, 2026 at his home. Born on October 9, 2026 in Abilene, Texas, he was the son of the late John and Margaret (Meales) McAdoo and husband of 54 years to the late Betty Sue (Barnes) McAdoo.

Raised in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, David left for college in 1963, where he embarked on a lifetime of service, leadership, and exploration that took him across the United States and around the world. A 1967 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, he served as an Army helicopter pilot in Vietnam. During his combat service, he survived a helicopter crash caused by enemy fire and engine failure without injury. For his valor and outstanding service, he was awarded two Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Bronze Star Medal, the Air Medal with 29 Oak Leaf Clusters, and three Army Commendation Medals.

Following his military career, he built a successful career in manufacturing and business leadership with Corning Glass Works and AMP, later Tyco Electronics. Over the course of his professional life, he lived in Texas, Michigan, Georgia, Kentucky, New York, Ohio, North Carolina, Germany, and Vietnam. He retired in May 2001 as Business Director for Tyco's North American Automotive Operations.

He shared 54 loving years of marriage with his wife, Betty Sue McAdoo, and was devoted to his family, friends, and many lifelong interests.

Among his greatest passions was the study and conservation of native orchids. In 1978, he co-authored An Annotated Catalog and Distribution Account of the Kentucky Orchidaceae, beginning a lifetime of involvement with orchid research and education. He served as President of the Triad Orchid Society in Greensboro and was a co-founder and past president of the Native Orchid Conference, Inc. He was instrumental in securing the organization's federal tax-exempt status, launched its Yahoo discussion group in 2002, and founded its quarterly journal in 2003. Today, the online community includes more than 400 members worldwide, with 185 journal subscribers. He also helped organize and lead several Native Orchid Conferences, including the 2002 conference in Greensboro, North Carolina, the 2003 conference in Ontario, Canada, and the 2004 conference in Conway, South Carolina, welcoming attendees from across the United States, Canada, England, Germany, and the Netherlands.

David is survived by his children, Susan Elizabeth McAdoo and Michael William McAdoo; his granddaughter, Lillian Helen McAdoo; and his brother, John McAdoo. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters (Helen and Barbara), and wife.  

Memorial services celebrating David's life will be held at a later date at Main Street United Methodist Church, 306 South Main Street, Kernersville, North Carolina with reception to follow.

He will be remembered as a decorated veteran, respected business leader, dedicated naturalist, and generous mentor whose curiosity, courage, and commitment to service enriched the lives of countless people throughout his remarkable journey.

Friends and family may sign the guestbook online at www.piercejeffersonfh.com