Joe and Penny Adamson have been selected as Lehi Heritage Day 2026 honorees in recognition of their lifelong commitment to the Lehi community, according to a report published August 25.
The couple's involvement in Lehi spanned high school sports, community service, and raising five children, leaving a legacy that continues through their descendants.
Joseph Lee Adamson was born in Salt Lake City in 1940 and lived his entire life in Lehi. Penelope Holcomb, who moved to Lehi at age 15 after being born in St. George, met Joe while attending Lehi High School. The two were both active in school activities, including sports and productions.
After marrying on Feb. 14, 1963, in the Manti Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the couple raised five children: Angie Clark, Jason Adamson, Jim Adamson, Greg Adamson, and Lee Adamson. Their family grew to include 18 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Joe passed away in 2021 after 58 years of marriage.
In their professional lives, the Adamsons operated Adamson Auto Inc. out of a renovated gas station on Lehi Main Street. Penny also worked for 13 years at Powers Clothing Store and spent 17 years as an Alpine School District bus aide. Additionally, the couple managed a farm in Fairview, where family members worked together on agricultural tasks.
The Adamsons were heavily involved in local service and organizations. Penny served in various leadership roles within the LDS Church, including roles as president for Primary, Young Women, and Relief Society. She also participated in the PTA at Sego Lily Elementary and the Miss Lehi Pageant Committee.
Joe helped organize the Lehi Alumni Basketball Tournament and served in Church leadership. Together, the couple served on the Lehi Booster Club and helped establish the Lehi High School Hall of Fame in 1992 to recognize alumni.
Sports have remained a central theme for the family, with the couple supporting their children in various athletic activities. The family continues this tradition by attending Lehi, BYU, and Utah Jazz games.
