While the world knows Stephen Curry as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, fewer are familiar with the man who laid the foundation for that greatness—Cleive Ester Adams. A devoted father, grandfather, and moral pillar, Cleive is the father of Sonya Curry and grandfather to NBA superstar Stephen Curry. His influence, though away from media attention, has played a vital role in shaping one of sports’ most admired families.
Early Life and Values Passed Down
Though the specifics of Cleive Ester Adams’s early life remain limited in the public domain, the values he passed down to his family suggest a life defined by purpose, work ethic, and discipline. He was likely born in the 1940s or early 1950s, making him in his 70s or early 80s as of 2025. His upbringing instilled the importance of integrity, family structure, and resilience—principles he passed down with intention.
Cleive is married to Candy Adams, a woman of Haitian descent whose cultural background brought rich diversity into the family. Together, they raised their children with a strong focus on education, faith, and sportsmanship. Their quiet but firm parenting approach became the framework for achievements across multiple generations.
A Family Rooted in Purpose and Character
Cleive and Candy Adams raised three children:
- Sonya Alicia Curry: Born on May 30, 1966, Sonya became a standout student-athlete at Radford High School and later at Virginia Tech, where she played volleyball. Today, she’s a respected educator and founder of the Christian Montessori School of Lake Norman in North Carolina. Her emphasis on emotional intelligence, self-discipline, and academic growth reflects the core values she inherited from Cleive.
- Cleive Adams Jr.: He chose the athletic path as well, becoming the head football coach at Averett University. His leadership in collegiate sports continues the family’s legacy of discipline and mentoring.
- India Adams: While she maintains a private life and avoids media attention, India is regarded as a reflection of the same values that define her siblings—education, character, and integrity.
The Foundation Behind Stephen Curry’s Rise
Perhaps the most widely known figure in the family tree is Stephen Curry, born on March 14, 1988, to Sonya and former NBA star Dell Curry. What makes Stephen’s rise in the basketball world so unique is not just his talent, but the moral and spiritual grounding he received from his mother—and by extension, from his grandfather Cleive Ester Adams.
Stephen has repeatedly credited his family for his work ethic, humility, and faith. These traits didn’t just emerge on the basketball court—they were cultivated through generations of purposeful parenting. Cleive’s influence is deeply embedded in the values that helped shape Stephen into a two-time MVP, four-time NBA champion, and role model to millions.
The Educational Legacy
Cleive’s commitment to education finds a direct expression through his daughter Sonya’s work. The Christian Montessori School of Lake Norman, founded in 1995, serves as a beacon of the family’s belief in nurturing young minds. The school focuses on self-directed learning, emotional awareness, and spiritual growth—an educational model that aligns perfectly with the values Cleive has long championed.
His influence also played a part in encouraging Stephen to complete college courses even during his professional career. Education was never just about academic success—it was a tool for personal development, accountability, and lifelong learning.
Character and Sportsmanship: More Than Talent
Stephen Curry’s reputation goes beyond basketball. Known for his positive demeanor, leadership, and sportsmanship, these traits can be traced back to the values instilled by his family—especially his grandfather. Cleive didn’t just encourage achievement; he modeled humility, consistency, and character in everyday life.
In a world where athletes often get lost in fame, Stephen’s grounded nature stands out. It’s a quality that fans admire, and it’s rooted in the foundational support Cleive provided across two generations.
Community, Service, and Faith
One of the lesser-known yet powerful parts of Cleive Ester Adams’s legacy is the family’s ongoing dedication to service. The Christian Montessori School serves the local community, but the family’s influence reaches further through charitable foundations and public service initiatives.
Faith has also been a cornerstone of their identity. Sonya’s open commitment to Christian values and Stephen’s outspoken faith reflect a home where spirituality and integrity were deeply embedded.
Net Worth and Financial Influence
Cleive Ester Adams has remained outside of the public business sphere, so there is little verified information about his personal net worth. However, considering the collective success of his children and grandchildren—Sonya as an educator and author, Cleive Jr. as a collegiate coach, and Stephen Curry with an estimated net worth of over $160 million—the family enjoys both financial stability and generational wealth. While Cleive himself may not have accumulated wealth in the public eye, his real investment lies in the human capital he cultivated within his family.
