James Willie Adams, Jr.

James Willie Adams, Jr. (affectionally known as Jimmy, Daddy, and Poppy) was born in Toledo, Ohio on November 10, 1948 and departed this life on October 18, 2023. The firstborn to two educators, Mable Swanson and James Willie Adams, Sr., James was destined to love learning. As the older siblings to Ronnie and Evette, the Adams children enjoyed their childhood. James made lasting friendships as a child, that he maintained for the rest of his life. James was educated in the Toledo School System and graduated from Toledo Scott High in 1966. James also attended the University of Toledo. In 1970, James married Fern and they welcomed their beautiful daughters, Candace, and Crystal. James was a proud father, and this was one of his most cherished roles. In addition to being an educator, James, Sr. was also a World War II veteran and had a lasting impact on his children. Following in his father’s footsteps, James joined the U.S. military in 1977, as well. The U.S. Navy offered a rewarding career, an opportunity to travel the world, and the lifelong bonds he made with his comrades - friends that became family. In 1978, James married Geraldine. Together, with their son, Olando, the Adams family was complete…until the joy of grandchildren and great-grandchildren entered their lives! After serving for 20 years, James retired from the military. He didn’t settle down after retiring; he was an avid traveler and enjoyed talking and joking with others. He was known for his wit and boisterous laugh! He loved reading, music, and his movies. James and Geraldine joined St. Mark U.A.M.E. Church and continued to dedicate his life to God. James was preceded in death by his parents, James Willie Adams, Sr. and Mable Swanson; brother, Ronnie Adams (Dawnetta) of Columbus, OH; father-in-law, Frank Leroy Dyson; brothers-in-law, James Woodland, Joseph Woodland, and Robert Woodland; sisters-in-law: Otelia Barnes, Frances Reddix, Alean Whalen, and Mary Woodland. James is survived by his loving wife, Geraldine Adams; daughters: Candace Adams of AZ, Crystal L. Adams of Toledo, OH; son: Olando Berry of Waldorf, MD; sister: Evette Adams-Lawson of Toledo, OH; grandchildren: JNai Edwards, Nia Edwards, Christopher Steward, Michael Griffin, Matthew Griffin, J-Kwann Hawkins, Tonio Berry, Nico Berry, Sadé Hawkins, D-Lano Berry, Omani Berry; great grandchildren: Nilli Raine, Jahlil King, Niles Thomas, Milo Jahsiah; sisters-in-law: Lillie (Sam) Jordan, Lettie (George) Howard, Elaine (Louis) Jordan; brother-in-law: David Roy (April) Dyson, a host of cousins, nieces, and nephews, brotherly friends: William (Zee) Watkins, Marvin Lee, Raymond Harrison, and sisterly friend, Lorraine Davis. The family will receive friends on Friday, November 10, 2023 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM in St. Mark’s UAME Church Valley Lee, MD. Where a funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM with Rev. Pete House, Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.