Charles Franklin Adams

Charles F. Adams, a man of remarkable intellect, passion, and boundless compassion, passed peacefully at his home in Fort Smith, Arkansas, surrounded by his loving family and dear friends. Born on June 16, 1936, in Wewoka, Oklahoma, Charles was the beloved son of Ailenn and Pastor Charles Adams. He is survived by his cherished wife of 20 years, Alexandra Martinez.

Charles was a beacon of knowledge and education, holding multiple degrees from esteemed institutions, including a Master of Arts in Philosophy from Columbia University and a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard Divinity School. His academic pursuits were vast, spanning mathematics, Eastern European Area Studies, cognitive psychology, and business administration, among others. This diverse educational background fueled a career that touched countless lives across the globe.

A proud veteran, Charles served in the U.S. Army Security Agency as a Russian translator and cryptographer from 1959 to 1962. His dedication to service extended well beyond his military years. Co-founding The Hope Foundation of Fort Smith and The Fuller Center for Housing, Charles worked tirelessly to provide housing and care for those in need, both locally and in places far from home, such as Mirebalais, Haiti.

Charles's career was as varied as it was impactful. From leading humanitarian projects in the Dominican Republic and Haiti to founding Adirondack Television Corporation and running multiple business ventures, his professional life was a testament to innovation and dedication. Notably, his efforts in clean water initiatives in Haiti earned him recognition and honors from Rotary International, including the "Service Above Self Award."

His passion for service was matched by a deep love for music and languages. Charles studied classical piano for nine years and was a baritone soloist in the Russian Chorus of the U.S. Army Language School. He was fluent in several languages and held numerous professional licenses, reflecting a lifetime of learning and achievement.

Charles’s life was enriched by his affiliations with various professional and service organizations, including Rotary International and the First Presbyterian Church in Fort Smith. His commitment to his faith and community was unwavering, and he found joy in creating humanitarian projects that could inspire and be replicated by other organizations.

A service to honor Charles's life will be held on November 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, located at 116 N 12th Street, Fort Smith, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Hope Foundation of Fort Smith, reflecting Charles’s enduring commitment to helping those in need.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Veterans Care System in Fayetteville and Fort Smith, Heart of Hospice, and Mercy Hospital for their unconditional care and support during Charles's final days.

Charles F. Adams leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, and an indomitable spirit that will continue to inspire and touch lives for generations to come.

Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Brotherton Brothers Cremation Services in Fort Smith, 914 N. 32nd St. Fort Smith, AR 72903. (479) 434-3901 or (479) 965-8202.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.brothertonbrothersfuneralhomes.com.