Ralph Adams

1936 - 2025

Ralph Adams, 89, of Waco, entered his heavenly home on September 3, 2025, passing peacefully in the house he had called home for nearly 60 years.

Born in Groesbeck, Texas, Ralph grew up in Prairie Hill, where he graduated from high school and met his high school sweetheart, Rita Joy (Dyer) Adams. They married in 1958 and shared 49 years together before her passing in 2007.

A 1958 graduate of Baylor University, Ralph enjoyed a long banking career-spending 25 years at Waco Savings and Loan, other local financial institutions, and ultimately retiring from American Bank in 2011. He was known for his honesty and integrity in helping families and businesses in the Waco community. A trip to dinner with Ralph often meant running into friends who would greet him and share a moment of fellowship.

Ralph's faith was central to his life. A long-time member of Columbus Avenue Baptist Church, he served through Meals on Wheels, the Waco Symphony Board, the Prairie Hill Cemetery Association, and numerous other civic organizations.

He loved traveling, with Colorado holding a special place in his heart through senior trips, family vacations, and annual ski trips. A particularly meaningful highlight was a trip to Singapore and Hong Kong shared with his siblings and their spouses. He also cherished celebrating his 80th birthday with family at the Biltmore Estate, complete with a short walk on the Appalachian Trail.

More than anything, Ralph treasured his family. He was a devoted father to Karen Miller (Calvin), Darrell Adams (Pam), and Elaine Powell (Doug). He proudly celebrated the accomplishments of his six grandchildren-Andrew Miller (Ashley), Evan Miller, Morgan Johnson (Jared), Mason Adams (Kirsten), Aaron Kirk (Amanda), and Sarah Powell-never missing a graduation, whether it was at Baylor, Texas Tech, Auburn, or the University of Georgia. In recent years, his greatest joy was time spent with his five great-grandchildren: Lily, Levi, and Lucas Johnson, and Cameron and Avery Adams.

He is also survived by his siblings Margaret Dickson, Nathan Adams, and Dan Adams; numerous nieces and nephews; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Rita, and his brother Thomas Adams.

The family is especially grateful to the Arias family. Teresa and her family have been part of ours for more than 40 years, and their friendship and care have been a blessing beyond words.

Visitation will be Thursday, September 11, from 5–7 p.m. at OakCrest Funeral Home, 4520 Bosque Blvd., Waco, Texas. Graveside service will be Friday, September 12, at 10 a.m. at Prairie Hill Cemetery in Prairie Hill, Texas.