Thomas “Tom” Orlo Adams, 83, of Riverside, died peacefully on Oct. 25, 2025. Born on Nov. 29, 1941, he retired in 2005 from a storied career in higher education, serving as the dean of students and later as associate vice president of Student Affairs at Loyola University Chicago from 1968 to 1995. After Loyola, he held leadership positions in development and grant-writing at Midwestern University, DePaul University and Marillac St. Vincent Services. In an active retirement, he traveled the globe with his wife Donna.
Known as a dapper gentleman, he never passed up an opportunity to acquire a new hat or a stylish cane. He had a rare gift for making everyone feel valued and heard. Whether through small acts of thoughtfulness or his steadfast presence, he left an indelible mark.
He was the son of the late Orlo and Mildred Adams of Oak Lawn and had a strong family bond with his three siblings, Lynn (Thomas) Looney, who preceded him in death; Timothy (Jane) Adams and Shannon (Benjamin) Wilson and a large and loving extended family of nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and -nieces.
Tom was the husband of Donna Dorl-Adams. Together, they created a warm and welcoming home filled with love and laughter. He was the father of T. Jeffrey Adams (Maggie White) and Shannon Adams (Steve Rembis); and the grandfather of Jack Thomas Adams and Elijah Orlo Rembis, delighting in their growth and sharing in their joys.
To honor Tom, you may donate to the Greater Chicago Food Depository or Doctors Without Borders. Please mention you are donating in his honor.
A celebration of Tom’s life will occur on Saturday, Nov. 29 with an open house from 2 to 7 p.m. at 135 Lawton Road, Riverside.
