Tom Dean Adams

Tom was one of those guys that everyone liked. He was a man of quiet temperament, humble, patient and compassionate. His legacy is one of love of family, educating young minds, fierce loyalty to friends and generosity to those in need. Tom Adams passed away at home on December 1, 2024. He was 74 years old.

We remember Tom as:

A Husband - Tom and Cyd met in college. He was an ROTC fraternity guy and she was an untethered hippie in the art department. It would be hard to find two more different people. Somehow they clicked and navigated a path forward. They loved each other, made two beautiful kids along the way, celebrated their 50th Anniversary this year and had a life well lived.

A Father - Tom thought that his greatest achievement was his children. Nothing brought him more joy than knowing his children were happy and safe. Tom taught his kids valuable life lessons, such as “ If you like something buy 2 (or 3) , how to be cutthroat at playing cards and the importance of a good education ( “get that sheepskin” ). Jordan's wife Kate and Alli's husband Riley added even more joy to his life.

A Poppy - Tom was struggling with Parkinson's and dementia for the entirety of his grandchildren’s lives. Harper and Max brought great joy to him and he loved them dearly.

A Friend - Tom was a friend you could count on and he especially loved the theme parties at the clubhouse. He started a ROMEO club for men that grew to 20 individuals for dining out once a month for companionship. Tom cherished his friends, took care of them and always gave help to those in need.

A Teacher - Tom taught at Worthington Estates School for most of his career. He was beloved by faculty and parents, and remembered fondly by students who wanted to be in his class. Tom and Cyd frequently came across students, past and present, who ran up to say hi to Mr. Adams. A Gardener - Tom had a green thumb and talked to his flowers as he planted them. He could be heard saying, “you're going to love it here and grow like hell.” They didn't disappoint.

A Sports Fan - Tom played football in highschool and ran track in college. He played on a men's soccer team until way into his 50’s and graciously played “modified” tennis with his wife, becoming proficient at delivering the ball directly into her reach. Tom coached soccer for both his children's teams. He was an avid OSU buckeyes fan and never missed a game.

A Storyteller - Tom loved to tell stories over and over again to the delight of Alli and Jordan. Some of their favorites were the terrifying hunting story that Cyd tried to ban, (but got told anyway due to its popularity), stories of college shenanigans (of which there were many) and humorous ones like the one about his blind pony Bird. Tom could talk to anybody about anything and started up many conversations while at the grocery store.

Tom faced his long illness with dignity, grace and patience. At the end, when he could no longer communicate, he enjoyed listening to music with Glenn to the sound of one of his favorite songs, Stairway to Heaven. The love and impact he had on others continues to reverberate even though he is no longer with us.

At Tom's request, there will be no formal service. A celebration of life with immediate family and friends will be arranged at a date to be determined. Plan on smiling, laughing and reminiscing to celebrate this lovely man.