Cleive Ester Adams: The Man Behind the Legacy of Sonya Curry and the Adams Family

When you hear the names Stephen and Seth Curry, you probably think of flashy NBA highlights, record-breaking three-pointers, and a basketball legacy. But behind this athletic powerhouse is a man who never sought the spotlight—Cleive Ester Adams. While he might not be a household name, his influence is woven deep into the fabric of one of the most respected families in sports.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore the life and legacy of Cleive Ester Adams: the man, the mentor, and the grandfather behind NBA greatness. From his humble beginnings to his quiet but powerful influence, this is a story of generational success built on strong values, faith, and family.

Who Is Cleive Ester Adams?

Let’s start with the basics. Cleive Ester Adams is an African-American businessman based in Radford, Virginia, best known as the father of Sonya Curry and grandfather to Stephen, Seth, and Sydel Curry. While he has kept a low public profile throughout his life, his values and work ethic have left an undeniable mark on multiple generations of his family.

He is often mistaken online for his son, Cleive Adams Jr., who has had a public career as a college football coach. But make no mistake—Cleive Sr. laid the foundation for a legacy that continues to inspire.

A Humble Start: Life in the Segregated South

Born during the era of segregation in the American South, Cleive grew up at a time when opportunities for African Americans were limited and hard-won. The challenges he faced early in life shaped his character—resilient, grounded, and fiercely dedicated to providing for his family.

Though we don’t have detailed records of his early years, what we do know is this: he built his life from the ground up. Settling in Radford, he entered the construction field and eventually established his own drywall business. That business didn’t just pay the bills—it became a model of grit and entrepreneurship for his children to follow.

Meet the Family: The Heart of Cleive’s Legacy

Marriage to Candy Adams

Cleive’s partner in life is Candy Adams, a woman of Haitian descent who shares his strong values around faith and family. Together, they raised three children with a focus on education, sports, discipline, and spiritual grounding.

Their household wasn’t about flash or fame. It was about building character, working hard, and staying true to your roots—values that clearly shaped their children’s paths.

The Curry Connection: A Generational Success Story

Sonya Curry: Educator, Athlete, and Matriarch

Cleive’s daughter, Sonya Curry, is more than just the mother of NBA stars. She’s a trailblazer in her own right. Born and raised in Radford, Sonya was a standout athlete and student who later attended Virginia Tech, where she met her future husband, Dell Curry.

Later in life, she founded the Christian Montessori School of Lake Norman, emphasizing faith-based education and development. Her success as a parent and educator reflects the influence of her upbringing and her father’s unwavering support.

Cleive Adams Jr.: Coach and Leader

Cleive’s son, Cleive Adams Jr., carved out his own legacy in sports—this time on the football field. A former athlete at Ferrum College, Cleive Jr. went on to become a coach at several universities and was recently named Athletic Director at Ferrum.

His dedication to mentoring young athletes mirrors his father’s influence: quiet strength, discipline, and purpose.

The Quiet Impact of a Private Man

Despite the public success of his children and grandchildren, Cleive Ester Adams has never sought recognition. You won’t find many interviews or headlines about him—but you will find his fingerprints all over the achievements of his family.

He represents the backbone of many American families: hardworking, humble, and profoundly influential in ways that aren’t always visible. His legacy lives on not through fame, but through the choices, achievements, and values of those who come after him.

Faith and Cultural Identity: The Adams Family Core

Faith was the cornerstone of the Adams household. Regular church attendance, spiritual guidance, and moral grounding were all part of everyday life. This faith-centric upbringing is especially evident in Sonya Curry’s life choices—particularly her founding of a Christian school.

Their mixed African-American and Haitian heritage also shaped their worldview. Embracing both cultures gave the Adams children and grandchildren a sense of pride, identity, and resilience that continues to show in their personal and professional lives.

Clearing Up the Confusion: Two Cleives, One Legacy

Let’s address a common misunderstanding: Cleive Ester Adams and Cleive Adams Jr. are two different people.

• Cleive Ester Adams: Entrepreneur, father of Sonya Curry, and Radford patriarch.

• Cleive Adams Jr.: College football coach and athletic director.

Many online sources mix up their names, especially since “Ester” is often left out and the “Jr.” suffix is sometimes omitted. Hopefully, this article helps set the record straight.

The Grandchildren: Carrying the Torch

The influence of Cleive Ester Adams shines brightly through the lives of his grandchildren.

• Stephen Curry: Widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history, a two-time MVP and multiple-time NBA Champion.

• Seth Curry: A respected NBA player in his own right, known for his accuracy, composure, and leadership.

• Sydel Curry: Former college volleyball player turned mental health advocate and entrepreneur.

Each of them embodies humility, grace, and work ethic—all traits rooted in the values passed down by their grandfather.

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Why Cleive Ester Adams’ Story Matters

In a world that often celebrates fame over substance, Cleive Ester Adams reminds us of something important: the most powerful legacies are built behind the scenes. He didn’t need the cameras or applause. His legacy lives in the quiet choices—raising strong kids, running an honest business, and staying true to what matters most.

Final Thoughts: A Legacy That Lasts

Cleive Ester Adams may not be a household name, but he’s the foundation of one of the most admired families in sports today. Through hard work, unwavering values, and deep-rooted faith, he helped shape generations of leaders, athletes, and role models.

So next time you watch Stephen or Seth Curry hit a clutch shot or hear Sonya speak about parenting and education, remember—there’s a humble drywall contractor from Radford, Virginia, who helped lay the foundation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Cleive Ester Adams a public figure?
A: No, he leads a private life and is known mainly as the father of Sonya Curry and grandfather of Stephen and Seth Curry.

Q: What did Cleive Ester Adams do for a living?
A: He owned and operated a drywall construction business in Radford, Virginia.

Q: Is Cleive Ester Adams the same as Cleive Adams Jr.?
A: No, Cleive Jr. is his son—a college football coach and athletic director.

Q: How is Cleive Ester Adams related to Stephen and Seth Curry?
A: He is their maternal grandfather.