William James Adams

William James Adams, 91, a devoted pastor, missionary leader, and servant to communities around the world, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 14, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, compassion, and lifelong service.

Bill, as he was known to many, was born on July 8, 1934, in Glasgow, Scotland, and was the youngest of six children of the late Alan Adams and Martha Shaw. From an early age, he demonstrated a deep sense of purpose that would guide his life’s work. He pursued his education with dedication, earning a Teaching Diploma from the College of Teachers of the Blind in London, a Bachelor of Arts from the Bible College of Wales in Swansea, and a Master of Arts from the Graduate School of Theology in Glendale, California. He was ordained into ministry on February 1, 1964, and continued his theological studies throughout his life.

Bill’s calling led him across continents in service to others. Even though Bill had sight, he taught himself Braille and then began his career teaching at the Scottish Rehabilitation Center for the Blind, where he instructed individuals in Braille, mobility, and crafts. He later served as a pastor in Wales before moving into international mission work.

As Field Director for Korea with the Christian Children’s Fund, and later as Field Director for North Asia with Compassion International, Bill oversaw large-scale humanitarian and child-care programs, impacting tens of thousands of children and fellow missionaries across Korea, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. His leadership and compassion brought care, education, and hope to countless families.

Bill moved his family to the United States in 1978 where he continued his pastoral ministry, serving congregations in California, Illinois, Michigan, and New Hampshire. He was Senior Pastor at Bethel Baptist Church in Muskegon, Michigan, and later at First Baptist Church in Amherst, New Hampshire, where he faithfully served beginning in 1987 and retiring in 2001. His ministry included not only preaching and leadership but also a deep commitment to caring for others, including outreach to senior citizens and speaking at camps and retreats.

Bill was a man of unwavering faith, known for his kindness, humanity, humility, and dedication to helping others. He inspired many through his teaching, leadership, and personal example.

In addition to his parents and siblings, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 56 years, Pamela, and their infant son, Jonathan. He is survived by his daughter, Fiona Beckwith and her husband, Peter, of Westerville, Ohio; and his son, Stewart Adams and his wife, Grey, of Lynchburg, Virginia. He was a cherished grandfather to five granddaughters, all of whom lovingly called him “Papa.”

Bill also took great joy in life’s simple pleasures, including collecting interesting pens, watches, and especially wearing well-made shoes. His granddaughters will always remember his delight in giving them pens and the pride he took in wearing sweatshirts from the colleges they attended, never missing an opportunity to share their accomplishments.

Bill will be remembered for his lifelong commitment to service, his global impact on communities in need, and the quiet strength of his character. His legacy lives on in the many lives he touched. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Crouse-Kauber-Fraley Funeral Home, 225 N Main Street, Johnstown, OH.