Ever wondered about the man behind NBA superstar Stephen Curry’s success? While we all know Steph’s amazing skills on the court, few know about his grandfather, Cleive Ester Adams – the quiet force whose values shaped one of basketball’s most influential families.
Let’s dive into the untold story of the man whose legacy lives on through the Curry dynasty.
Cleive Ester Adams Bio/Wiki
| Facts | Details |
| Full Name | Cleive Ester Adams |
| Birth Date | February 2, 1949 |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Height | Approximately 5’10” (177 cm) |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Spouse | Candy Adams (née Wyms) |
| Children | Sonya Alicia Curry, Cleive Adams Jr., India Adams |
| Grandchildren | Stephen Curry, Seth Curry, Sydel Curry-Lee |
| Education | Information not publicly available |
| Net Worth | Estimated at approximately $500,000 |
| Known For | Father of Sonya Curry, Grandfather of Stephen Curry |
Cleive Ester Adams Early Life and Background
Born on February 2, 1949, in the United States, Cleive Ester Adams grew up under the care of his parents, Cleive E. Adams Sr. and Bertha B. Adams. His family’s roots lie in African-American heritage, though details about his early life remain largely private. (TheCityCeleb’s)
Like many African Americans of his generation, he likely faced significant challenges growing up during the civil rights era. Despite these obstacles, he developed strong values that would later influence his children and grandchildren.
The resilience Cleive developed during these years shaped his approach to family, education, and perseverance – qualities that would later become hallmarks of the Curry family.
Cleive Ester Adams Marriage and Cultural Heritage
Cleive’s life took a rich cultural turn when he married Candy Adams (née Wyms), a woman born and raised in Haiti. Their union created a beautiful multicultural foundation that added incredible diversity to their family. (Boring Magazine)
This marriage brought together African-American and Haitian cultural influences, creating a rich heritage that would later influence their grandchildren’s identities.
This cultural diversity sometimes led to misunderstandings. When Sonya married Dell Curry, some Charlotte Hornets players initially thought Dell had married a white woman because of Sonya’s lighter skin tone from her mixed heritage – highlighting the unique cultural identity the Adams family navigated. (Essentially Sports)
Cleive Ester Adams Children and Family Life
The Adams family includes three children who have each carved their own paths: Sonya Alicia Curry, Cleive Adams Jr., and India Adams.
Sonya became an educator and volleyball player, Cleive Jr. pursued football coaching at Averett University, and India chose education like her sister but maintained a more private life.
While each sibling found their own way, all three embody the work ethic, perseverance, and family unity that their father instilled in them from an early age.
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Financial Circumstances
Cleive’s early life included significant financial struggles, yet his focus remained steadfast on providing for his family and ensuring his children had opportunities to succeed. According to Sonya, he worked tirelessly to meet his family’s basic needs.
Despite limited resources, Cleive prioritized his family’s wellbeing above all else, creating possibilities for the next generation rather than just focusing on survival.
These challenges taught invaluable lessons about hard work, perseverance, and the importance of education as a path to greater opportunity – values that Stephen Curry embodies today.
Values and Principles
The core values Cleive instilled in his family continue to shape their approach to life and success. His emphasis on family unity, hard work, and perseverance created a foundation for greatness.
In the Adams-Curry household, Cleive’s principles weren’t just talked about – they were lived daily. He demonstrated the importance of pushing through difficulties and sticking together through challenges.
Cleive’s quiet determination set an example that resonates through generations, showing that character and persistence matter more than circumstances.
Cleive Ester Adams Influence on the Curry Dynasty
While Cleive never sought fame, his influence is undeniably felt in the achievements of his grandchildren, particularly Stephen Curry, Seth Curry, and Sydel Curry-Lee.
Stephen’s legendary work ethic and humility can be traced back to his grandfather. Cleive’s values of discipline and integrity are reflected in Stephen’s approach both on and off the court. (Vocal Media’s)
The Curry family’s strong bonds stem directly from Cleive’s emphasis on sticking together through challenges. His legacy of determination lives on in each of his grandchildren’s accomplishments.
Extended Family and Legacy
Cleive’s family tree now extends to include several great-grandchildren, including Stephen Curry’s children: Riley Elizabeth Curry, Ryan Carson Curry, and Canon Curry. (Briefly News)
Through his grandchildren’s families, Cleive’s impact extends to a new generation who will carry forward his values of hard work, education, and perseverance.
What started with Cleive’s determination to provide for his family has blossomed into a dynasty known for excellence in sports, education, and community service – a powerful testament to his life’s work.
Geographic and Educational Connections
The Adams family has strong ties to Virginia, particularly Radford, Virginia, where Sonya attended Radford High School and later Virginia Tech.
It was at Virginia Tech that Sonya met Dell Curry during her college volleyball career – a meeting that would ultimately lead to the Curry dynasty.
Despite financial limitations, Cleive ensured his children valued education, setting a precedent that continues with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren today.
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Cleive Ester Adams Legacy in 2025
As of 2025, at 76 years old, Cleive can witness how his emphasis on hard work, family unity, and perseverance has shaped one of sports’ most respected families.
With Stephen Curry still active in the NBA and breaking records, the influence of the family patriarch remains evident in the sports world.
From Sonya’s Christian Montessori School to Stephen’s charitable foundation, their commitment to community service reflects Cleive’s belief in helping others – perhaps the most meaningful aspect of his legacy.
Personal Character and Private Life
Despite his connection to celebrity, Cleive Ester Adams has maintained an intensely private life. Little is known about his personal hobbies or daily activities, as he’s chosen to remain out of the spotlight.
Cleive’s approach to life seems characterized by humility and a focus on family rather than personal recognition. His private nature speaks volumes about his character.
In a world obsessed with fame, Cleive’s choice to remain behind the scenes while supporting his family’s success demonstrates a quiet confidence and selflessness that’s increasingly rare.
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Cultural Impact and Identity
The Adams-Curry family represents a rich multicultural heritage that has influenced their identity and public perception. Cleive’s African-American background combined with Candy’s Haitian roots created a diverse family culture. (SportsKeeda)
Stephen Curry’s lighter skin tone, inherited partly from his mother Sonya’s mixed background, has sometimes led to misconceptions. His teammate Draymond Green once noted that people wanted to make Steph “out to be soft” because he’s “light-skinned.”
Rather than letting others define them, the family has drawn strength from their diverse roots – a testament to the solid foundation Cleive and Candy built through their union.
Notable Achievements and Facts:
- Father to three successful children, including educator Sonya Curry.
- Grandfather to NBA stars Stephen and Seth Curry.
- Created a multicultural family through marriage to Haitian-born Candy Adams.
- Instilled values of hard work and perseverance that shaped the Curry family’s success.
- Maintained a private life despite family connections to basketball fame.
- Overcame financial hardships to provide opportunities for his children.
- Emphasized the importance of education throughout generations.
- Grandfather to Sydel Curry-Lee, former college volleyball player and mental health advocate.
- Great-grandfather to Riley, Ryan, and Canon Curry.
Conclusion
Though Cleive Ester Adams has remained largely out of the limelight, his role as a father and grandfather has left a lasting imprint on the world through his family. The remarkable success story of the Curry family stands as a testament to his values.
When you watch Stephen Curry sink another impossible three-pointer, remember the quiet strength of his grandfather who helped make it all possible. Cleive’s story reminds us that true legacy isn’t measured in fame or fortune, but in the values we pass to future generations.
What values are you passing down that might shape generations to come? If Cleive’s story teaches us anything, it’s that our greatest impact often extends far beyond what we can see in our lifetime.
FAQ’s
How old is Cleive Ester Adams in 2025?
Cleive Ester Adams is 76 years old in 2025, having been born on February 2, 1949.
What is Cleive Ester Adams’ nationality?
Cleive Ester Adams is an American citizen of African-American descent.
What is known about Candy Adams, Cleive’s wife?
Candy Adams was born in Haiti in the 1940s before moving to Virginia, USA. A devout Christian, she married Cleive Ester Adams and together they raised three children despite facing financial struggles.
Who is India Adams?
India Adams is Cleive Ester Adams’ daughter who has chosen a more private life compared to her siblings. While details about her professional life are limited, she’s believed to work in education like her sister Sonya.
What is Sonya Curry’s relationship with her father?
While specific details about their personal relationship remain private, Sonya has mentioned being raised primarily by her mother along with her siblings, though the values instilled by both parents are evident in her life.
What values did Cleive Ester Adams instill in his family?
Cleive emphasized hard work, family unity, perseverance, education, and faith – values that continue to shape the Curry family’s approach to life and success.
Is there any information about Cleive Ester Adams’ career?
Specific details about Cleive’s career remain largely private. According to family accounts, he faced financial difficulties during his earlier years but remained focused on providing for his family.
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