Kathleen Ann Adams

Kathleen Ann Adams, 78, passed away on Tuesday, July 14, 2026. A resident of Thomasville, North Carolina, Kathleen will be remembered with deep respect and lasting affection by all who knew her. Born March 28, 1948, in Schenectady, New York, she was the daughter of the late Robert James and Anna Aldershoff Adams.

Kathleen’s life was marked by steady devotion to others and a quiet strength that carried her through each season. She brought a thoughtful, honest presence to her relationships, and those closest to her knew they could rely on her loyalty, wisdom, and kind-hearted care. In ways both seen and unseen, she gave of herself generously and selflessly, offering compassion with a resilience that never sought attention, yet never failed to make a difference.

In 1966, she moved to New York City. Kathleen dedicated 25 years of hard work to the New York Transit Authority, where she served as a railroad clerk before later moving to North Carolina. Her diligence and sense of responsibility reflected a life lived with purpose, and her steadfast work ethic was matched by the sincere consideration she showed to the people around her.

Kathleen’s commitment to family and community was evident throughout her life. In New York, she served as president of the PTA for P.S. 90 in Brooklyn, New York, and she was a determined advocate for special education services—an extension of her compassionate spirit and her belief that every child deserved support and opportunity. She also attended nutrition classes through the health department sponsored by UNC Greensboro University, reflecting a practical curiosity and a willingness to keep learning.

She found joy in everyday routines and creative pursuits. Kathleen enjoyed riding the GTA bus, working on sewing projects, and using “U glu” in her sewing. She also loved going to the beauty store to buy hair bows to create different hairstyles—small, thoughtful expressions of creativity that brought color and care into daily life.

Kathleen was a loving daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend, and she will be greatly missed. Preceding her in death were her parents; her son, James Horton; and Onyx Horton.

Surviving to cherish Kathleen’s memory are her two sons, Wright (Michelle) Adams and Arnie (Atoria) Horton; and her two grandchildren, Alexander Adams and Jalyn Harris.

Visitation will be held Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Sechrest-Davis Funerals and Cremations, 18 Randolph Street, Thomasville, NC 27360. A Celebration of Life will follow from 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm. at Sechrest-Davis. A Committal Service will take place from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm at Holly Hill Memorial Park Cemetery, 401 W Holly Hill Rd, Thomasville, NC 27360.

The family is under the care of Advantage Funerals and Cremations.