William Malvin Adams Jr., 85, passed away on August 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on October 17, 1940, William was the son of William Adams Sr. and Alice Marie Adams (Shorter). He devoted his professional career to public service, serving as the Associate Director
of Physical Plant Services for the Smithsonian Institution.
On October 15, 1960, William married Francine Leger – his best friend and the love of his life. Together they shared nearly 66 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, faith, and family.
William is survived by his beloved wife; his three sons, William M. Adams, Jr., David A. Adams (Cheryl), and Kenneth A. Adams (Gail); his brother, Charles L. Henderson, Jr. (Carole), his sister Marie Schwagler (David); his grandchildren Jeannette L. Modic (Keith), Cynthia J. Powell (Phillip), David A. Potter, Erin M. Adams (Adam Nablo), Alexandra W. Adams, Christopher J. Adams (Beverly), William M. Adams, IV (McKenzie), Davon A. Potter, Cecilia L. Quattrone (Paul); and his great-grandchildren Lucas R. Modic, Vivienne E. Nablo, and Liam G. Nablo. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and all those whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Rose Mary Smith (Dayton). Above all else, William was a devoted husband, father, brother, and family man. Family was everything to him. He found his greatest joy in spending time with those he loved, celebrating life’s milestones together, and providing steadfast guidance and support.
SERVICES
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., 30195 Three Notch Road, Charlotte Hall, Maryland. A recitation of the Holy Rosary and prayer service will follow at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 28297 Old Village Road, Mechanicsville, Maryland with Father Jim Cowles. Interment will immediately follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery, 38888 Dr. Johnson Road, Mechanicsville, Maryland.
William’s legacy lives on through the family he cherished. Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him. Condolences may be made to the family at www.brinsfieldfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Mechanicsville Volunteer Rescue Squad. Arrangements by Brinsfield Funeral Home & Crematory, P.A., Charlotte Hall, MD.