Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Adam Roth Obituary
On December 16, 2015, Adam Wingfield Roth, 57, passed away peacefully after a brief battle with cancer. He was surrounded by family and friends at his parents Manhattan home. Born May 16, 1958 in Philadelphia, PA, Adam was raised in Princeton, NJ, and graduated from Princeton High School in 1976. He attended Emerson College in Boston, where he formed the Comedy Workshop with Steven Wright and Denis Leary, continuing to collaborate with Leary for the rest of his life. As a professional composer and guitarist, Adam was a quintessential figure in the New York City rock scene for over 30 years, performing with, among many others, the Del Fuegos, the Jim Carroll Band, Garland Jeffreys, Merseybeat legend Billy J. Kramer, and the band he founded, the Liza Colby Sound. Adam mentored at-risk youths battling addiction with the non-profit organization Road Recovery. He is survived by his son Charlie Ringo Roth, partner Marta Maletz, parents Caroline Roth and cartoonist Arnold Roth, and brother Charles Roth. Known for his easygoing wit, impeccable style, and charisma, Adam was a true artist in every way. A musician, showman, loving friend, brother, and son, Adam's most rewarding role was being a devoted dad to his young son. He will be terribly missed. A memorial gathering will be announced at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Adam Roth
Tony Crago
January 1, 2021
It's been 5 years since you left us Adam, but not a day goes by when you're not thought of. Hope you're rockin' up there. Will never forget you. Still love & miss you brother....
Beth Sopko
March 20, 2016
I just heard; I had known Adam several years ago but had lost touch with him.
Really, really sorry I didn't even get to say goodbye.
Patrick Goldsmith
January 12, 2016
His passing is one more BIG proof that death SUX!( for those left behind for now...) Missing him will be a drag...Yet- I bet his spirit is still soaring!
Ursula Medway
January 10, 2016
Music has lost a great. I'm glad to have called you my friend Adam. You'll be sorely missed by all who knew you. Will never forget you my friend.x
Tony Crago
January 9, 2016
You were a good friend to me Adam, and so many other people. I was blessed to have had you in my life, the memories will live on. Going to miss you brother....
Allison Deller
January 9, 2016
You gave me so many electric,joyful,nights and so many days filled with compassion and encouragement.My heart will never be the same.All my love and no fear to all of us that are left behind.Its an impossible idea to live in a world without you.
January 8, 2016
so sorry....thank God for the music he made
Sim Cain
January 8, 2016
RIP Adam. You are truly missed. Thoughts and prayers to your family.
Janice LaFlam
January 8, 2016
Oh Adam, Your spirit was contagious; only meeting and working with you once, I was affected by your generousity and humor. You've gone home, never to be forgotten; always to be remembered by all you've touched. Rest In Peace, Dear man. Keep 'em laughing up there!
Flash Rosenberg
January 8, 2016
Sending sympathy, with all love and support to the whole family. I regret I never met Adam directly, but surely he was extraordinary, especially due to his amazing parents - my cherished friends, Caroline and Arnie.
Jane Platt
January 8, 2016
I was blessed to have grown up acrossed the street from his wonderful family in Princeton and attended school together. AS well as being able to keep in touch with them through the years. Adam was a kind and very talented man that enjoyed life. He put up a brave fight with many family and friends praying and supporting him. The world is a much better place having him here but unfortunate he was unable to stay here longer. Prayers to all his loved ones.
Emma DeCorsey
January 8, 2016
Adam was such an important member of the New York City music community and of New York City itself that his obituary should have been written up in the main New York Times obituary section (as it was in the New York Daily News). Anyone who was lucky to know him even for a minute had their life enriched invaluably. He will never, ever be forgotten.
Doug and Anne Wygal
January 7, 2016
Our condolences to Marta, Charlie Ringo, Mr. and Mrs. Roth, CP and Robin.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rest easy Adam.
Kathy Forte
January 7, 2016
Your Spirit is soaring with the Angels. You've touched a world of hearts
Rich Croland
January 7, 2016
RIP...
January 7, 2016
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Kenneth Brady
January 7, 2016
A sweeter, kinder, funnier (and yes more dapper) gentleman has hardly been seen 'round these parts of NYC in years. Adam gave us music and laughter, earned wisdom and a generosity of spirit which touched many. A staggering loss. When he called you "pal", your day was set. Much love to his family.
Molly Moynahan
January 7, 2016
He cast such a mighty shadow full of light and music. A wonderful son, brother, partner, father and friend, I'm terribly sorry.
the night of our last gig together, we had no idea at the time xxx
Owen Comaskey
January 7, 2016
How will we get by without you Addy ? Love you brother and always will, MACH SHAU dear friend, from the old ribcracker xxx
Showing 1 - 20 of 20 results
Make a Donation
in Adam Roth's name
Memorial Events
for Adam Roth
How to support Adam's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Adam Roth's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
