Thomas James Adams

Thomas James Adams was born on August 7, 1951, and passed away on February 2, 2026. Tom lived a life marked by devotion, adventure, laughter, and quiet steadiness — the kind of life that leaves a permanent imprint on everyone lucky enough to know him. He was the beloved husband of Carla Adams, the love of his life. Their marriage was filled with partnership, travel, joy, and deep friendship. Together, they built a life rooted in family and strengthened by shared experiences that spanned the globe. Tom was born to Rita and Dave Adams, both of whom preceded him in death. He was a twin to his brother Tim, and grew up surrounded by a loving family. He is survived by his brothers Bruce (Mary Jo), Ron, Tim (Phyllis), and Joe (Vicki). He was also preceded in death by his sister, Jean Leiboff. He was also preceded in death by his in-laws, Brawley and Theresa Vaughan. Tom was a proud father of two and grandfather of six. He is survived by his daughters Jennifer Thiellen and Carrie Nielsen. Jennifer and her husband Jason share four children — Jacob, Sara, Samantha, and Nathan — who brought Tom endless pride and joy. Carrie and her husband Troy have two daughters, Taylor and Caitlyn, who were a constant source of love and light in his life. Jennifer and Carrie were the center of Tom’s world. He loved being their dad, cheering them on, teaching them, teasing them, and supporting them through every season of life. He was proud of them beyond measure — and he never missed a chance to say so. Tom was a lifelong learner and dedicated professional. He graduated from Bellevue University and spent his career serving as a Director of Project Management at First Data and TD Ameritrade. He was respected for his leadership, discipline, and calm presence — someone others could count on. But Tom’s greatest legacy wasn’t found in titles or achievements. It was found in the way he lived. He was passionate about fishing, and some of his happiest days were spent at the family cabin outside of Nevis. Few places on earth brought him more peace than that cabin on Little Island Lake. There, he taught his daughters and grandchildren how to fish, passing down not just a skill, but patience, presence, and the joy of being together. Tom was a great golfer and loved playing with his sons-in-law and friends, always enjoying the chance for a little competition — and a gentle reminder of who usually had the better swing. His adventures took him to courses around the world — from Nepal and Cambodia to Scotland, Hawaii, and the Dominican Republic. He was an accomplished bowler, always ready for a little friendly competition and an even better laugh. When he wasn’t outdoors or traveling, Tom could often be found doing what he did best — winning at the card table. He was a true card shark, known for his love of cribbage, bridge, and the family favorite, “Oh Hell.” Many family nights were spent gathered around the kitchen table, playing cards late into the evening, with Tom’s laughter filling every room. He was kind and patient — until it was time to play a game. Then his competitive spirit came alive, and he loved showing off his skills, always keeping things fun, spirited, and unforgettable. Tom was also a devoted sports fan. He was a huge Husker fan through and through, and when he married into a Green Bay Packers family, he embraced it completely. He took pride in being a Packers shareholder, a role he truly loved — another example of how wholeheartedly he joined in the traditions of the people he cared about most. After retirement, Tom and Carla embraced the gift of travel fully. Together they saw extraordinary parts of the world: flying over Mount Everest, visiting the Serengeti, exploring Vietnam, Nepal, Africa, South America, Russia, Turkey, the Caribbean and much of Europe. Their most recent trip was to France in May of 2025 — another chapter in a life rich with discovery. Tom especially cherished his role as a grandfather. He loved watching his grandchildren grow, excel in sports, and become their own people. He treasured time with family — whether at the cabin in summer or during the winter months in Siesta Key, Florida where they vacationed every year. Tom was known for simple, unforgettable joys: the best chicken, the best margaritas, his ever-present ball caps, a bottle of Mountain Dew in his back pocket, and a warmth that filled every room. He was the life of any party, but also the steady, kind soul you could always lean on. He was patient. He was gentle. He was deeply good. Truly, Thomas James Adams was one of the best this earth has ever seen — and the world is better because he was in it. He will be missed beyond words, loved beyond measure, and remembered forever. In Lieu of Flowers, Family suggests Memorials to Head for the Cure.

Thomas James Adams

August 7, 1951 - February 2, 2026