Wilma Fay Adams

Wilma Fay Adams was born on November 20, 1948, in Wilson, North Carolina to Columbus and Lillian Bullock Tyson. From an early age, Wilma’s gentle spirit and bright mind were evident. She graduated with academic honors from Speight High School on June 1, 1967. In 1968, she ventured out into the world—first to Washington, D.C., for a brief stay, and then to Spring Valley, New York, which she would ultimately call home. That same year, Wilma became a devoted member of Faith Temple Church of the Living God under the leadership of Bishop Sidney and Lela Buxton. They lovingly embraced her as a daughter, nurturing her spiritual journey and shaping the faith that would sustain her throughout her life.

In 1972, Wilma married the love of her life, Johnnie Joseph Adams. Together, they built a beautiful family and were blessed with three children, along with bonus daughters. Wilma found joy in her work as a Senior Billing Clerk at Orange & Rockland Utilities, where she dedicated more than 21 years of service. She also held a quiet passion for writing, a reflection of her thoughtful and expressive soul.

In 1988, at just 39 years old, Wilma faced a life-altering diagnosis of breast cancer and was given a 40% chance of survival. Yet, through God’s grace and her unwavering faith, she defied every expectation. Her life became a living testimony — each day a victory, each moment a reminder of God’s sustaining power and purpose.

Despite her health challenges and personal loss of her beloved husband, Wilma remained steadfast in her commitment to God and her church family. She served joyfully in numerous roles at Faith Temple Church of Christ Written in Heaven, including: Church & Financial Secretary, Youth Pastor, Bible School Teacher & Registrar, First Assistant Sunday School Superintendent, Adult Women’s Sunday School Teacher, President of the Singles Ministry, State Youth President, Trustee, Prayer Intercessor—and anywhere a need arose, she served wholeheartedly, “as unto the Lord.”

Beyond her formal responsibilities, Wilma lived a life defined by compassion. She cared for others with a gentle, unwavering heart—offering mercy, encouragement, and kindness to all, both within her church family and far beyond its walls. Her life itself was a ministry: steady, faithful, loving, and deeply impactful. While she devoted herself to serving those in need, her greatest joy was always her family, especially her grandchildren. She was affectionately known as “Grandma Wilma” and “Granni Ma,” titles she cherished with all her heart.

Wilma passed away peacefully and victoriously. She is preceded in death by her parents, Columbus C. and Lillian Bullock-Tyson; her beloved husband, Johnnie J. Adams Sr.; and her siblings, David Tyson, Patricia Sue Tyson, Sarah Tyson-Claytor, Robinette Vick and Bobbi Ray Cox, Sr. and bonus daughter: Prophetess Belinda Whatley.

Wilma's memory will be forever cherished by her children: Lela D. Washington (Cobrann), Lashanda Adams Woods, and Johnnie J. Adams. She also leaves behind her bonus children, Carol Charles (Rebert), Melanie Tyner, and Pastor Michael Riley Sr. (Rose). Her grandchildren—Richard, Damien, Jasmin, Tyrone, Michael Jr. (LaShann), Markus, Maurice, Cherish, Sydney, Zion, CJ, Olivia Fay, and Braylen Life—will carry her spirit forward.

Wilma is survived by her siblings: Columbus Tyson (Velma), Annie McDuffie, Rev. Larry Tyson, Robert Tyson (Tanya), Carolyn Tyson, Rachel Barksdale, and Santa Tyson. She was also a beloved godmother to Monique Sanders and Elder Timothy Sanders (Shermaine). Her family extends to her aunt, Delores Melton, her

uncle, Wilbur Bullock, and close friends, Steve and Patty Anger, and Pastor Ralph & Lady Norma Cowan. Special mention goes to her devoted niece, Wanda McDuffie, and her cousin, Terry Wilson, alongside a host of other relatives who held her dear. Wilma's legacy of kindness and love will continue to resonate within the hearts of all who knew her. Wilma’s life was marked by endurance, faith, generosity, and an overflowing love for God and people. Her legacy remains a beautiful testament to a life well lived, a race faithfully run, and a light that continues to shine in all who knew her. Take your rest, you’ve finished well and God is pleased.