Eric Lorenzo Adams Sr.

Born and raised in Washington, D.C., he was the cherished son of Lawrence T. Adams and Sheila B. Ray.

Eric was a proud graduate of Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Maryland, and began his education at Holy Comforter–St. Cyprian Catholic School.

Answering the call to serve, he joined the United States Marine Corps—where he embraced the creed he often repeated: “Once a Marine, always a Marine.”A lifelong learner and devoted teacher of God’s Word, Eric was known for his powerful preaching, his gift of encouragement, and his unwavering faith. His evangelistic ministry reached beyond the pulpit, as he traveled, taught, and ministered to people from all walks of life. He was a prolific teacher of Scripture—always eager to share the Gospel, offer prayer, and inspire others to walk in faith. Through his sermons, his counsel, and his everyday conversations, he left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Eric accepted the Lord as his personal Savior on the Friday night of a New Year’s Revival service at Refreshing Spring Church of God in Christ, alongside his then-girlfriend, Tracee Adams. That moment became the foundation of a lifelong commitment to Christ and the beginning of his journey in ministry.

Eric later met Tracee when she walked into his workplace—an encounter he fondly described as “love at first sight.” They were married at Refreshing Spring Church of God in Christ in Riverdale, Maryland. Together, they made their home in five different states over the years, raising two beloved sons and building a life rooted in faith, family, and devotion everywhere they lived.

He faithfully served as founder and pastor of Sojourner Village Church, worked with the U.S. Postal Service, and contributed to referee associations. A proud fan of his hometown team, he remained loyal to the Washington Redskins/Commanders.

Lovingly Remembered

Eric is lovingly remembered by his sons, Eric Adams Jr. and Xzavaier Adams, and their mother, Tracee Adams; two grandsons, Cyrus Adams and Elias Adams; sisters, Leslie Payne (Gary) and Lauren Adams; brother,Torrance Adams; nieces, Chamica Adams, Christina Holman, and Tara Holman; nephew, Quinton Hebron; great-nephew, Cy’Shaun Adams; mother-in-law, Celestine Holman; and brother-in-law, Benjamin Holman (Tara).

He will also be remembered for his joyful spirit, his generous heart—often known as “the candy man”— and his famous homemade chocolate chip cookies, which brought smiles to all who tasted them.

Eric’s legacy endures in the lives of all who knew him, through his ministry, his devotion to family,

and his abiding faith in God.