James Adams

With a heavy heart I share the passing of my dad, James Scott Adams, age 54, on March 26th 2022 in Redstone, Colorado. After years of physical health challenges, he is now resting in complete peace.  He was born in Detroit, MI, grew up in Milford and was a graduate of Lakeland High School.  He continued his education at Specs Howard School of Broadcast Arts and built a career in the media/commercial industry for many years.  He leaves behind the “apple of his eye” Brianna, as well as Kandace, Tiffany and Johnny whom he lovingly raised as his own with his whole heart.

My dad will always be known as a sweet-hearted man. Whether it was making sure everyone was included and having a good time, or bringing warm Wendy’s chili to the same homeless man countless times throughout my childhood, he always led with his heart. He had a smile that lit up every room, and an infectious laugh that would vibrate through everyone.  He was quick-witted, had a great sense of humor, and was extremely intelligent (“Big head, big Brain” as he would always say).

My dad and I shared a unique bond since the day I was born. Whether it was visiting my Great Grandmother every Saturday, stopping at the Looney Bakery in Milford for donuts and chocolate milk, or the hours spent in the truck as a child listening to classic rock & roll, we always had a great time together. He shared his love for music with me and always challenged me to “Name that Band”!  I am so privileged to have had such a loving, dedicated, hilarious and super cool dad. Because of his kind spirit, so many amazing people have been affected by his loss, which in return has given me so much love and support in this devastating time.

There is no doubt that my Dad truly lived life to the fullest. There was never a shortage of outrageous, hilarious stories that he would share with me. Ranging from the boat days on Beachway as a young boy, to the trouble and unforgettable memories he made with the “Highland Hippies” in high school and beyond. In his later years, he proudly received the nickname “The Mayor” of Royal Oak.

Not only did he know how to be the life of the party, he had the strongest work ethic that never went unrecognized. I can’t even recall how many times I’ve said to him and others that, “he was the hardest working man I know.”  His colleagues fondly remember him as a positive, committed and fun guy, regardless of the circumstances. He put his all into whatever he did, and most definitely instilled those same values in my siblings and I.

Dad was a phenomenal photographer and was always the guy to have a camera in his hand. There are thousands of photos he’s shared with me from vacations with family/friends, candid photos of myself as a child, to super cool shots of iconic artists.  Dad always managed to find a way to reach the front row, and always got the best shots!  Going through these pictures (especially the past few weeks) revealed to me that photography was just another way my dad expressed his love for others. As funny or tedious as it felt, he always said “just take one more!” I will always appreciate that he captured so many memories for all of us, and will forever miss his text messages that included his awesome pictures from beautiful places.

He is survived by his mother Nancy Adams of Pisgah Forest, NC; his father Jerry (Karen) Adams of Harbor Springs, MI; his loving sister Julie (Cally) Adams of Harbor Springs, MI; and his former wife Lori Adams of Waterford Township, MI.  Jim was preceded in death by his best friend Tim Schell (Smiley)

Memorial services will be announced in the coming days, I hope that we can celebrate my dad’s life together in a way we all know he would appreciate. I am looking forward to hearing all of your memories made with him.

The family asks that memorial donations be directed to Brianna B. Adams c/o Julie Adams, 900 Arbor St. Harbor Springs, MI 49740 or Venmo @sspotlights. https://account.venmo.com/u/sspotlights