Cleive Ester Adams: A Quiet Legacy That Echoes Through the NBA

May 28, 2025
 Joseph John
Written By Joseph John

I'm Joseph John, an entertainment writer with 5 years of experience in the showbiz industry.

In the world of professional basketball, the spotlight often shines on the athletes themselves.

However, behind every successful player is a foundation built by family, values and upbringing.

Cleive Ester Adams, the father of Sonya Curry and grandfather to NBA stars Stephen Curry and Seth Curry, may not have sought public attention, but his influence is deeply embedded in the Curry family legacy.

His life story is a testament to the power of African-American family values, faith-based upbringing and the enduring impact of a supportive family environment.

Quick Bio Snapshot

AttributeDetails
Full NameCleive Ester Adams
Born1940s (exact date unknown)
BirthplaceRadford, Virginia, USA
SpouseCandy Adams
ChildrenSonya Curry, Cleive Adams Jr., India Adams
GrandchildrenStephen Curry, Seth Curry, Sydel Curry
OccupationEntrepreneur (Drywall Construction)
NationalityAmerican
EthnicityAfrican-American
ReligionChristianity
LegacyPatriarch of the Curry family

Who is Cleive Ester Adams?

Cleive Ester Adams was a man of quiet strength and unwavering principles.

While details about his early life are limited, it’s known that he was born in the 1940s in Radford, Virginia.

He married Candy Adams, a woman of Haitian descent, and together they raised three children: Sonya Curry, Cleive Adams Jr. and India Adams.

Though he led a private life, his dedication to his family’s well-being and success was evident.

Early Life, Education & Background

Growing up in a time when African-American family values were paramount, Cleive’s upbringing emphasized the importance of hard work, education and faith.

He likely completed his education in segregated schools, a common experience for many African-Americans during that era.

Despite facing racial challenges, Cleive’s resilience and commitment to his family’s future remained steadfast.

Family & Relationships

Parents & Siblings

Information about Cleive’s parents and siblings is scarce, as he preferred to keep his personal life private.

However, it’s clear that the values instilled in him during his formative years played a significant role in shaping his approach to family and life.

Marriage & Spouse

Cleive married Candy Adams, a woman of Haitian descent.

Their union was built on shared values of faith, disciplineand family unity.

Together, they created a nurturing environment for their children, emphasizing the importance of education and hard work.

Children of Cleive Ester Adams

Sonya Curry

Sonya Alicia Curry, born on May 30, 1966, in Radford, Virginia, is Cleive’s most well-known child.

A former college volleyball player, Sonya later became an educator and the mother of NBA stars Stephen and Seth Curry.

Raised with a strong emphasis on family values and discipline, Sonya instilled these same principles in her children, contributing to their success in sports.

Cleive Adams Jr.

Cleive Adams Jr. has followed in his family’s athletic footsteps, serving as the head football coach at Averett University.

His career reflects the family’s commitment to sports and education, continuing the legacy of African-American sports families.

India Adams

India Adams, the youngest of Cleive’s children, has chosen a more private life.

While details about her career are limited, she is known to be a supportive figure within the family, contributing to the family’s multigenerational success.

Grandchildren & Their Achievements

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry, Cleive’s grandson, is a four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP.

His revolutionary style of play has changed the game of basketball, making him one of the most influential players in NBA history.

Seth Curry

Seth Curry, another of Cleive’s grandsons, has also made a name for himself in the NBA.

Known for his sharpshooting skills, Seth has played for several NBA teams, including the Philadelphia 76ers.

Sydel Curry

Sydel Curry, Cleive’s granddaughter, pursued a career in volleyball, playing for Elon University.

Beyond sports, she is an advocate for mental health, using her platform to raise awareness and support for mental health initiatives.

Career Highlights of Cleive Ester Adams

While Cleive Ester Adams did not have a public career, his influence is evident in the achievements of his children and grandchildren.

His dedication to family heritage and values and discipline laid the foundation for their success.

Life Before Fame

Before his family gained public recognition, Cleive led a quiet life focused on his family.

His commitment to family unity and educational values provided a stable environment that allowed his children to thrive.

Physical Appearance

Cleive Ester Adams was of average height and build.

Details about his physical appearance are limited, as he maintained a private lifestyle.

Social Media & Public Presence

Cleive did not have a public social media presence.

He preferred to keep his personal life private, allowing his children and grandchildren to represent the family’s achievements.

Why Is Cleive Ester Adams Famous?

Cleive Ester Adams is recognized as the patriarch of the Curry family legacy, a family known for its contributions to sports and education.

His emphasis on faith-based upbringing and family values has had a lasting impact on his descendants.

Net Worth & Personal Achievements

Cleive Ester Adams never lived a flashy life, so his net worth remains unknown.

But his real wealth lies in his family’s success. As the Curry family patriarch, his role in raising children and grandchildren with strong values, faith and discipline is his greatest achievement.

Nationality, Ethnicity & Religion

Cleive was American, with deep African-American roots and his wife Candy Adams brought Haitian heritage into the family.

A devoted Christian, Cleive passed down a strong sense of faith, shaping the family’s beliefs and lifestyle.

Personality, Hobbies & Interests

Cleive was a quiet, strong, and supportive man who valued privacy.

Though little is known about his hobbies, he was deeply involved in mentoring his family and took pride in their success.

Legacy & Influence

As the grandfather of Stephen and Seth Curry, Cleive’s quiet guidance created a lasting legacy.

His values shaped a sports dynasty built on faith, hard work and love, proving that the strongest leaders often lead from behind the scenes.

Read More: Lucy Bustamante: Secrets of a Bilingual News Powerhouse You Didn’t Know

Fascinating Facts About Cleive Ester Adams

  • Father of Sonya Curry, and grandfather to NBA stars.
  • Married to Candy Adams, who is of Haitian descent.
  • Helped raise a family deeply rooted in faith and education.
  • Lived in Radford, Virginia, where the Curry family legacy began.

FAQs About Cleive Ester Adams

Who is Cleive Ester Adams?
He is the father of Sonya Curry and grandfather to NBA players Stephen and Seth Curry.

Where is he from?
He’s from Radford, Virginia, USA.

What is he known for?
Being the Curry family patriarch and shaping a legacy of success, values and sports excellence.

Final Thoughts

Cleive Ester Adams may not be a household name, but his influence has echoed across generations.

His devotion to faith, family, and values helped shape the incredible legacy of the Curry family.

From raising Sonya Curry to inspiring Stephen and Seth, his quiet strength continues to leave a mark on the world.

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