Ray Francis Adams

Ray Francis Adams, 78, of Beaufort, passed away on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at his home.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at Bridgeway Church of Beaufort. A graveside service will be held following the visitation at Bayview Cemetery in Morehead City.

Ray F. Adams was born on the 8th of February 1945, in Morehead City, NC. He passed away peacefully on November 7, 2023, in Beaufort, NC, after a long battle with dementia.

Ray was a beloved father, friend, and community member. He is survived by his sons, Shannon (Cecilia), and Kevin (Callena) Adams, from his first marriage to Ruth Bennett LaChance. They were his pride and joy. He also leaves behind his two stepdaughters, Carmen and Leticia from his second wife, Diana Fleck Adams. He is also survived by many grandchildren, cousins, and nieces and nephews who love him dearly. Ray's love for his family was deep and unwavering. He was a steadfast pillar of support, always ready with a hug and a helping hand.

He was born into the humblest of beginnings. He was raised by his widowed mother and other siblings in a converted train caboose on Shackleford Street in the Promise Land until he was five years old. He started learning from a very young age from his “Grandpapa Cagie” (Macajah Adams) how to fix and build all things – houses, boats, etc. He became well-known in the community for these skills for the rest of his life.

Ray joined the US Army after finishing school, serving his country with pride and honor. Until dementia stole his memory, he would talk about his times in the military and his travels around the world. While on leave in Morehead City, he met the love of his life, Ruth Bennett, when she was 16 and they married a year later.

After his service, Ray continued his dedication to public service, working for many years as a high voltage electrician including at Cherry Point in civil service until his retirement. After retirement, he spent many years maintaining all things at the Michael J Smith Airport. His colleagues remember him as a hardworking “wizard” who took pride in his work and was always willing to go the extra mile.

He also spent a tremendous time “working on the water.” He loved all things related to commercial fishing until regulations made it too difficult. It was not uncommon in the 70s and 80s for him to work all day at his regular trade, then “work on the water” in the evenings to provide for his family.

Ray was a man of many talents and interests. He was known throughout the community as a "Jack of all trades" and salt-of-the-earth/self-made man. There wasn't a task he couldn't handle or a problem he couldn't solve. The highlight of all these skills was when he restored his childhood home in 2012/2013 that his Grandpapa had built almost a century before. That project helps continue a legacy that his family and friends will continue to enjoy and remember him by for many generations to come. He was so proud of it.

His intelligence was not only applied to practical matters; Ray was a man of deep thoughts and introspection. He maintained a life-long love of learning and was always ready to engage in a discussion about Carteret County history, his concern over the future development of his beloved hometown, or just problem solving anything in general. His sharp mind and insightful perspective enriched the lives of those around him. He was the epitome of a southern gentleman.

Ray's passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him. His memory, however, will live on in the hearts and minds of his loved ones. His legacy of love, kindness, and community service will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family is extremely grateful for his selfless friend and caregiver, Vicki Hall. She took care of him in his last few years. She is a saint on earth who made his quality of life the best it could be.

We remember Ray not for his departure, but for the life he lived, the love he shared, and the difference he made in the lives of those around him. He was a beacon of light in our community, a loving father, a devoted husband, and a true friend. His memory will forever be etched in our hearts. He has now gone to join his son Ryan Adams; mother, Rebecca Marie Guthrie; sisters, Betty Holt, Deanie Jones, and Faye Guthrie; and brothers Fred Adams and Bryan Guthrie. Job well done!

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC