Jessie Bell Adams

Jessie Bell Adams, daughter of the late Amos and Ada Adams, was born on January 5, 1939, in Dadeville, Alabama. She was the seventh of eleven children and was raised in a close-knit family that instilled in her the values of faith, perseverance, and hard work.

Jessie attended Council High School (now Dadeville High School), where she distinguished herself as one of the school's most accomplished athletes. A standout basketball player for three consecutive years, Jessie earned a reputation as one of the premier players in Tallapoosa County. Her exceptional talent, fierce determination, and unwavering competitive spirit made her a fan favorite and a respected opponent. Known for her mental toughness, physical strength, and leadership on the court, she played every game with confidence and heart. Coaches admired her discipline, teammates looked to her for encouragement, and opposing teams knew they were facing one of the area's finest players. Her athletic achievements and sportsmanship left a lasting impression that would be remembered long after her high school years.

Following her graduation from high school, Jessie relocated to New Jersey before later settling in New York, where she enjoyed a successful career with the Razor Blade Company for many years. Eventually, she made Stamford, Connecticut, her home to be closer to family. Jessie treasured her relationships with her nieces, nephews, and extended family, faithfully staying connected through her monthly telephone calls. Affectionately known as her "Drive-By" calls, these conversations became a cherished tradition that brought smiles, encouragement, and laughter to loved ones both near and far.

After working at the Razor Blade Company, Jessie continued doing what came naturally to her; caring for others. She worked at the Children's Learning Center in Stamford, Connecticut, until her retirement. She poured love, patience, and kindness into the lives of countless children. Even years after her retirement, many of those children continued to remember her fondly and remained in contact, a testament to the lasting impact she made on their lives.

Jessie found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved enjoying KFC or Popeyes chicken with a side of coleslaw, spending time with family, singing, dancing, and lifting the spirits of those around her.

A devoted woman of faith, Jessie became a faithful member of Greater Faith Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she served diligently as a missionary until her health no longer allowed her to attend. Her love for the Lord was evident in the way she lived her life and cared for others. She loved the Lord with all of her heart, mind, and soul, and truly embodied the scripture, "The joy of the Lord is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10).

Jessie was a loving and devoted mother to her only child, Denise Noble, and a proud grandmother who cherished every moment with her family. She leaves to cherish her precious memory: her devoted daughter, Denise Noble of North Haven, Connecticut; two beloved grandchildren, Amber Jean-Guillaume and Elijah Jean-Guillaume of New Haven, Connecticut; two sisters, Mary M. Kelly of Stamford, Connecticut, and Mary Pearl Gibbs (Graylin) of North Charleston, South Carolina; one brother, Elmer Adams (Kathy) of Trumbull, Connecticut; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. Jessie also deeply loved and adored her extended Jean-Guillaume and Murph/Mack families, who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Amos and Ada Adams; her sister, Magdalene Adams; and her brothers, Henry Lee Adams, Joe Adams, Joseph Adams, James Adams, Amos Adams Jr., and Governor Adams.

Jessie will always be remembered for her joyful spirit, unwavering faith, generous heart, and words of encouragement. She loved to dance and sing, and she never missed an opportunity to brighten someone's day with her infectious smile and uplifting spirit. Her favorite sayings, "Get to stepping!" and "You can do it!", reflected the optimism and motivation she shared with everyone she encountered. Her legacy of love, laughter, faith, strength, and encouragement will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Denise Noble via Cash App: $Denisenobl.