When we talk about the phenomenal Curry family, it’s hard not to shine a light on the pillar behind the scenes: Candy Adams. Born in the 1940s in Haiti and later moving to the United States, Candy is best known as the mother of Sonya Curry and the grandmother of NBA stars Stephen Curry and Seth Curry. Though she has remained largely outside the public eye, her quiet influence is deeply woven into the legacy of one of basketball’s most iconic families.
Quick Profile
- Full Name: Candy Adams
- Date of Birth: 1940s
- Place of Birth: Haiti
- Current Residence: Virginia, USA
- Ethnicity: Haitian-American
- Religion: Christian
- Spouse: Cleive Ester Adams
- Children: Sonya Curry, Cleive Adams Jr., India Adams
- Grandchildren: Stephen Curry, Seth Curry, Sydel Curry
Early Life and Family Background
Candy Adams was born in Haiti during the 1940s, a time of change and challenge across the world. Her early life in Haiti shaped her cultural identity, but it was in Virginia, USA, that she would raise her family and solidify her legacy. Upon moving to the United States, she married Cleive Ester Adams, a man of African-American heritage, creating a culturally rich and tightly knit family unit.
Facing both economic challenges and social barriers in 1950s and 1960s America, Candy and Cleive focused on raising their children with strong principles: education, perseverance, faith, and humility. These values became the foundation for generations of family success.
Motherhood and Her Children
Candy and Cleive raised three children:
- Sonya Curry: Born May 30, 1966, Sonya became an accomplished student-athlete at Virginia Tech and went on to build a career in education. She later married NBA veteran Dell Curry and became the mother of Stephen, Seth, and Sydel Curry. Sonya credits much of her parenting style and resilience to Candy’s example.
- Cleive Adams Jr.: The couple’s son found success in athletics, like his nephews. He became a college football coach, most notably the head football coach at Averett University in Virginia. Cleive Jr.’s work with young athletes reflects the values his mother instilled in him.
- India Adams: The most private of Candy’s children, India has also been linked to education and community development. Although she avoids the spotlight, she shares her mother’s commitment to family and service.
Grandchildren and Their Legacy
Candy Adams’s impact is perhaps most visible in her grandchildren, whose talents and character have gained worldwide admiration:
- Stephen Curry: Widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Stephen Curry has redefined the NBA with his shooting range, winning multiple championships and MVP titles. He often credits his family upbringing and strong support system as critical to his success.
- Seth Curry: A successful NBA player in his own right, Seth is known for his precision shooting and professionalism. His steady rise in the league exemplifies the quiet confidence and work ethic passed down from his grandmother.
- Sydel Curry: A former college volleyball standout at Elon University, Sydel has transitioned into entrepreneurship and advocacy. She is especially passionate about mental health, drawing from the strength and emotional intelligence modeled by her grandmother.
Values and Influence
Candy’s life was rooted in the firm belief that values matter more than status. Her guiding principles included:
- Faith: A devout Christian, Candy consistently relied on her faith to guide her decisions and uplift her family through hard times.
- Resilience: Growing up in Haiti and raising children in America during civil rights struggles and economic hardship, she remained strong and hopeful.
- Education: Candy pushed her children to pursue learning as a way to elevate themselves and future generations.
- Family Unity: Her example created a tight-knit household where love and mutual support came first.
These values not only shaped her children but also continue to influence her grandchildren in their personal and professional lives.
Legacy in the Curry Family
Candy’s daughter Sonya has publicly acknowledged her mother’s pivotal role. In interviews and her memoir, Sonya reflects on how her mother’s sacrifices, guidance, and unshakable faith became the compass for how she raised her children.
Stephen and Seth Curry frequently speak about the importance of family, noting that the respect and strength they witnessed growing up were foundational. Their success, they believe, is deeply rooted in the support system that began with women like Candy.
Sydel Curry has also mentioned her grandmother as a source of grace and inspiration, especially when navigating the pressures of athletics and public life. In this way, Candy’s legacy extends beyond achievements; it lives in the character and actions of each family member.
Challenges and Strengths
Life was not without struggle for Candy Adams. As an immigrant and a woman of color in mid-20th-century America, she faced both cultural and systemic barriers. Financial hardship was common, and opportunities were limited. Still, Candy prioritized her family’s well-being and led with faith.
Through hard work, resourcefulness, and support from her husband, Cleive, she ensured her children had what they needed to succeed. That perseverance ultimately laid the groundwork for the Curry family’s global recognition.
Estimated Net Worth and Public Status
Candy Adams herself has never pursued public fame or financial status. Her net worth is not publicly available, though it is likely modest compared to the success of her extended family. Her son-in-law, Dell Curry, has an estimated net worth of $8 million, and Stephen Curry is among the highest-paid athletes in the world.
Candy continues to reside in Virginia, often staying close to her children and grandchildren. While she may remain out of the media spotlight, her influence is present in every headline her family creates.
Conclusion
Candy Adams’s legacy is one of quiet strength, cultural pride, and deep-rooted values. As the matriarch of a family that has made a significant impact in the worlds of sports, education, and advocacy, she has helped create a dynasty that stands for more than just fame.
Behind the trophies, interviews, and public appearances is a woman who taught her family how to live with purpose, humility, and heart. Candy Adams may not be on magazine covers, but she is the soul of the Curry family story.
FAQs
How old is Candy Adams?
Candy Adams is 84 years old as of 2024. She was born in the 1940s.
Who is Candy Adams’s husband?
Candy Adams is married to Cleive Ester Adams.
Who are Candy Adams’s children?
Candy Adams has three children: Sonya Curry, Cleive Adams Jr., and India Adams.
Who are Candy Adams’s grandchildren?
Stephen Curry, Seth Curry, and Sydel Curry.
What is Candy Adams’s religion?
Candy Adams is a devout Christian.
What is Candy Adams nationality?
Candy Adams is Haitian-American.
What is Candy Adams net worth?
Candy’s net worth is not publicly available.
Where does Candy Adams live now?
Candy Adams resides in Virginia, USA.
How has Candy influenced her family?
Candy Adams values of faith, resilience, and education have shaped the lives and success of her children and grandchildren.
