Thomas (Tom) Jay Adams, or “Pops” as he was lovingly known to his family, passed away on January 9th, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born on December 1, 1945, in Springfield, Missouri, to the late Harold and Hazel (Mace) Adams. He attended Springfield High School, graduating in 1963, and served 47 years as a CNC operator for Loren Cook Company before retiring.
On December 1, 1964, he was united in marriage to the love of his life Linda (Raby) Adams. Together they raised two wonderful daughters: Theresa (Phil) Tranbarger and Suzanne (Dave) Martin. Pops was a devoted son, brother to Nancy (Adams) White, husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His family can recall nearly every piece of advice he ever offered and never doubted his devotion or dedication.

Pops was known to give back to his community through regularly participating in the Toys For Tots Motorcycle Ride, and he shared his servant heart and love of motorcycles to the rest of his family. Upon retirement, he learned to play guitar and would regularly perform for local churches and care homes and taught a few of his great-granddaughters to play as well. He enjoyed attending Sac River Cowboy Church in Springfield and you could often find him at Bluegrass Festivals and Motorcycle races with his friends and family.

Above all, there was nothing that Tom loved that all in his presence didn’t grow to love as well. He had a way of inviting you into a world that you never knew you were missing and, if you were in his company, you knew you were safe.
Pops delighted in his role to his six grandkids: Bradley Adams, Tiffany (Brett) Lindley, Drew (Hillary) Tranbarger, Whitney (Brad) Langdon, Jade (Gabe) Barton, and Daisha Martin. He had a host of great-grandchildren that miss him dearly: Alexa Langdon, Adieson Langdon, Mable Tranbarger, Kinley Adams, Chad Langdon, Henry Tranbarger, and Kennedy Adams.
His family will receive visitors on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 6:00-8:00 pm at Greenlawn Funeral Home North. A celebration of Thomas’ life will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home North on Wednesday, January 17, 2024, at 10:00 am with burial to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.