Gloria Ann Adams

Gloria was born on October 23, 1930, in Brockton Massachusetts. She was the youngest of seven children, a daughter of the late Carmela (Ventre) and Francesco Spadea. She was predeceased by her siblings - Anthony, William, Joseph, Marion, Mary and Eleanor - and by her husband, Robert J. Adams.

Gloria married Robert J. (Bob) Adams in 1951. They were high school sweethearts and were married for 72 years. Bob passed away at the age of 93 in August of 2023. Gloria is survived by her three children – Robert (Annemarie), William (Deborah), and Jeannie. She is also survived by two grandsons – William Jr. and Jonathan - and their children (her great grandchildren) Mia, William III, Nicholas, Dakota and Jonathan Jr., and many loved nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Brockton High School, Gloria was a modern woman in the 50’s and began working for a physician part time. Then she transitioned to full- time for physician practices, ultimately employed in the capacity of a Practice Manager for a large surgical group. Under her capable hands the administrative side of the practice thrived. She ran a tight ship … “it was her way or the highway.” She has remained friends with several of the nurses and staff who still thank her for all she did for them while working under her supervision.

Gloria radiated beauty and had a brief modeling career. Even into her 90’s she exuded beauty. Gloria excelled in sports, playing field hockey, basketball, softball, ice-skating and swimming in her youth. Later Gloria took up tennis and played until her late 80’s. Having three older brothers and being the youngest child made her a tough competitor. They taught her how to ride horseback sometimes bare back. Her brothers also showed her how to load and shoot a shotgun.

Gloria’s fondness for travel included several trips to Italy with her siblings, nieces and nephews. One trip included visiting her father’s birthplace, a little village called Gasperina which was in the mountains of Calabria. She was very proud of her Italian heritage.

Gloria truly loved music and danced and played the piano beautifully by ear (self-taught). One of her cherished memories was Frank Sinatra singing “My Way” and that became her favorite song. She adored Andrea Bocelli, especially his version of the “Lord’s Prayer” with his astonishing opera. She grooved to the sounds of Barry White and Lou Rawls. Less than 3 weeks prior to passing, she was dancing and singing to their tunes. She learned how to cook Italian from her mother but never used a measured recipe and would entertain 30 or more guests for a delicious dinner with ease. She had a great eye for interior design and was a wiz at home decorating.

Gloria was sharp at real estate. After years of both hard work and raising a family, she engineered several profitable real estate transactions that paid off handsomely. At that point, Glo and Bob retired to an exclusive private community called Sippewissett in Falmouth, Massachusetts on Cape Cod. The private neighborhood’s access to Racing Beach was her dream. Bob was her private chauffeur and could often be seen driving her to and from the beach in his golf cart with the number “10.” She was frequently seen swimming long distances at that beach for many years. Their last move to a warmer climate was to Fort Lauderdale on the ocean so Gloria could continue to swim as often as she wanted. In fact, she was seen swimming at 93 years old in the community pool.

Everyone that knew her told of her many acts of kindness and willingness to help. She believed that everyone should be treated equally. She could also be extremely protective and outspoken for anyone in need of help. It came natural for her to often compliment and make one feel special. Although she kneeled to pray every night, she was also described as one tough lady.

At 94 many witnessed her independence, strength, vitality and great sense of humor. When asked what her greatest accomplishment in life was, unequivocally her answer was her family that she cherished so much. Wonderful memories of her life will live on with her family and numerous friends. Gloria Adams did it “Her Way.”

Kraeer-Fairchild Funeral Home will handle the cremation, and Gloria will be buried at the National Cemetery in Bourne (Buzzards Bay), Massachusetts beside her husband with services at 11:30 AM on October 28, 2025.

Gloria had a deep-rooted Catholic faith and supported many charities throughout her life. Memorial donations may be made to The National Shrine of St. Jude (https://www.shrinefofstjuce.org); St. Jude Children Research Hospital (https://stjude.org); or the charity of your choice.