01/10/2026
Ralph J. Adams
Clifton Springs
Ralph J. Adams, a man whose life was embodied by love, devotion, and family, passed away on January 7, 2026 at the age of 98.
Funeral services will be held 11am, Saturday January 17th at the First Baptist Church, Clifton Springs.
Ralph was born on May 18, 1927, to the late Edward and Sarah Adams in Clifton Springs, New York, where he was raised. Before he was able to graduate from high school in 1945, he was drafted to the United States Army for World War II. Upon cessation of the war, Ralph was able to return home and complete his senior year, officially graduating from Clifton Springs High School in 1946. Post graduation, his decision to re-enlist led him to being stationed at the United
States Military Academy in West Point, NY, where he was then called to duty for the Korean War in 1950. During his overall time in the service, Ralph had the privilege to work as a medic for the Army football team, but his title as surgical technician was one he carried with the most pride.
After his honorable discharge, Ralph returned to life in Clifton Springs and went on to receive a degree for Business Administration from Rochester Business Institute. But, life truly began in the summer of 1959 when he met the love of his life, Mable (Davison) Adams of Endicott, New York. The two were married on October 24, 1959, beginning a beautiful marriage that spanned 66 joyful years. Ralph adored his beautiful bride and never hesitated to express his devoted love to her through a spontaneous (yet routine) song or poem as a testament to his enduring love.
Ralph and Mable had three children: Mark (Lynn) Adams, Valerie (Eric Ford) Adams, and Jeff (Ogla) Adams. They also welcomed a foreign exchange student from Peru, Rueben Vasquez, who lovingly earned the title of son.
Ralph was an extremely proud father, although arguably an even prouder grandfather to 11 and great grandfather to 17:
- Nicholas (Jyllian) Adams: children: Nolynn, Paige, Lauren
- Jason (Sara) Adams: child: Miles
- Brett (Karolann) Adams: children: Everett, Blake
- Brooke (Dutchie) Venuti: children: Dominic, Brynn
- Garret (Brandy) DeWind: children: Jacob, Brystol, Carlee, Ashlynn
- Travis (Erin) DeWind: children: Rudy, Winnie
- Courtney (Henry) Kuperus: children: Carson, Henry, Tenlee
- Reese Ford
- Camryn Ford
- Sierra Adams
- Craig Adams
He was a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews, and treasured his time with his grand-dog Dutch. He also valued the love and care his neighbors, Charlie and Betty Hall, extended to him throughout the years.
Ralph retired from Eastman Kodak, but his dedication to service did not end there. He remained deeply committed to volunteering and supporting his community, proudly wearing many hats throughout his life. He was an active member of the Rotary, Phelps American Legion, and he served faithfully as a Deacon at the First Baptist Church of Clifton Springs. His service extended even further through his involvement as a cemetery caretaker, hospital greeter, and food cupboard volunteer.
In the summer of 2000, Ralph participated in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic where he helped build a school, continuing his lifelong passion for service.
Ralph’s commitment to his family, friends, community and country never went unnoticed. He was honored with the Paul Harris Award and nominated for the Veterans Hall of Fame. Among his most humbling honors was his involvement in the Honor Flight of Rochester, traveling to Washington D.C., in recognition of his military service.
During retirement, Ralph found great joy in flowers, a good round of golf, and starring in numerous family movies created by his nephews, Gary, Charlie, and Richard. It was also no secret Ralph’s love for poetry. If he knew you, chances are he wrote a poem about you. His poems captured all his greatest joys, love for his family, told stories, or even a joke. His words told stories that will live on just as vividly as the memories he created.
Ralph was the kindest soul and loved so deeply. His stories, his poems, love, and life will be forever cherished by those who loved him, especially his beloved family.
Ralph was predeceased by his siblings, Jean Adams, Gilbert Adams, sister-in-law Ruth Adams, and his furry companion Leo.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in honor of Ralph to the Veterans Outreach Center of Rochester, NY.