Sylvia Bethel Adams

Sylvia Bethel Adams, 74, of Key West, Florida, passed away on Aug. 17, 2025.
Sylvia was born in Key West to Willis G. Bethel Jr. (U.S. Army, ret.) and Anne K. Bethel (Bender) on April 5, 1951. In 1971, she married James R. Adams Sr. and they spent the next 51 years together until his passing in 2022. She is survived by her son James R. Adams Jr. She also leaves behind three beloved sisters, Barbara "Bobbie" (Martin) Rivera, Patricia "Patty" (Peter) Estevez and Shirley (Thomas) Rupon; along with many, many nephews, nieces, cousins and their families who loved her and will miss her.
Sylvia loved her family and friends. Holiday gatherings and the weekly get-togethers of family at her parents' home were some of the highlights of her life. She delighted in every minute of her time spent with her family, especially around holidays and even more so when the kids were little, and that same love carried on when those children inevitability brought their own children to celebrate. After retirement, she often spoke of her enjoyment when hanging out with her friends. The regular lunch dates with her friends were something she looked forward to very much.
For 22 years she was in the employ of Keys Energy Services (aka City Electric), where she worked in their Delinquent Accounts Department. Good or bad, many locals may remember meeting her on occasion at her job. She always tried to help people whenever she could. She was an active member in the local IBEW for KEYS; even after her retirement in 2011 she continued to advocate for retiree pensions and benefits.
Though her early years were spent moving between military bases, as her father was active U.S. Army at that time, in the end she was a Conch and chose to spend her life, make friends and raise a family here in Key West.
My mother will be missed but never forgotten.
Her family plans to hold a service on Sunday, Aug. 31, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Dean-Lopez Funeral Home, 418 Simonton St. Friends and family are invited to come to pay their respects.