Ralph James Adams

Ralph J. Adams, a naval aviator, returned to the sky, having passed away in his sleep at home in Mills River, North Carolina on June 5, 2021.

Ralph was born in Chicago, Illinois to Emil Adams and Elizabeth Thomas.   Ralph had a twin brother Robert, and older brother Eddie, both of whom predeceased him.

Ralph grew up in Chicago and attended Northwestern University where he received his Bachelors in Mechanical Engineering, after which he entered military service in the United States Navy.

Ralph’s Naval service began on June 17, 1957 as a Naval Aviator aboard various air craft carriers including the USS Independence & Forrestal; during which time he had over 275 successful aircraft carrier landings.  Armed Forces awards included Expedition Medal; National Defense Medal and Navy Expeditionary Medal.  Ralph separated from the Navy at the rank of Lt. Commander August 31, 1966; after which he join Pan American World Airways as commercial airline pilot and continued to fly until he retired in 1985.

Ralph married his wife Patricia in 1963; they had 3 daughters, Cheryl, Karen and Donna.  At the time of his passing Ralph had eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Ralph and his wife relocated from Florida to Mills River, North Carolina in 2005.   Ralph was an avid golfer and became a member of the Opportunity House Golf Club where he served numerous positions.  Ralph was predeceased by his wife, Pat in 2018.  Memorial Service is scheduled at the River Oak Community Clubhouse, 56 River Oak Circle Mills River, NC 28759 on June 12, 2021 at 11:00 AM.