Billy Adams

Billy Adams, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, in the Bronx, New York, at the age of 81. Born on October 20, 1943, in Ailey, Georgia, Billy was the youngest son of John D. and Sadie Adams. His early life on a farm in Ailey laid the foundation for a remarkable journey.
At the age of 20, Billy moved to the Bronx, where he built a life filled with dedication, love, and community. He transitioned from farmwork to a distinguished 30-year career as a computer data analyst with the New York Public Library in Manhattan, from which he retired with honors.
Billy was a devoted husband to Dorothy Adams (passed Dec. 1991), and wonderful father to his three children, Audra Adams, William Adams, and Bilal Adams, and a loving stepfather to Sandra Brown. He was immensely proud of his large and growing family, which included eighteen grandchildren: Kayshon, Vaughne, Daequan, Marcel, Khalea, Gabriel, Koran, Arianna, Jabril, Morgan, Muhammed, Bilal Jr., Linell, Jeffrey, Evelyn, Danny, Lavetta, and Antoine. He also cherished his three great-grandchildren: Jaliyah, Jonas, and Benjamin.
Billy was preceded in death by all of his siblings: Lizzie, I.J., Rosetta, Brenda, Otis, Alice, Shirley, and baby Alvin.
Known for his profound wisdom and unwavering pride, Billy was a man who truly loved and supported his children. He was a loving brother and a cherished member of his family. His generosity knew no bounds; he was a great friend who consistently helped others, often described as someone who would "give you the shirt off his back."
Billy lived a long and healthy life, only becoming ill in March of this year. His family and friends are blessed to have had him in their lives for so long, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.