Joan Leigh Adams

She was born November 27, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan to Loice and Gladys (Jones) Kingston. She married Charles Adams on July 14, 1959, in Kentucky. He passed away on November 13, 2017.

Joan is also preceded in death by her parents and brother, Newton “John” Kingston.

She is survived by her daughter, Lynnette Adams; nieces and nephews, Emily Shlichter of San Mateo, California, Tim Kingston of Foley, Alabama, Cheri Brooksbank of Peoria and Bob Adams of Hanna City.

Joan graduated Magna cum laude from Bradley University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, a reflection of her commitment to caring for others. She worked in the secretarial pool at Caterpillar.

Joan was an avid reader and a self-taught pianist, filling her home with music. She was also a devoted member of Woodland Baptist Church in Peoria.

Family was at the heart of Joan’s life. She cherished spending time with her loved ones, especially during holidays. Her homemade pecan pies were a tradition and a sweet symbol of her love and care.

Joan had a generous spirit and a heart for service. She was a proud supporter of the Special Olympics and the Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA), always championing inclusivity and opportunity for all.

Funeral service will be held Friday, June 6, 2025, at Woodland Baptist Church, Peoria at 1:00 p.m. with a visitation one-hour prior to service. Pastor Joel Newton will officiate. Entombment will immediately follow the service at Parkview Cemetery Mausoleum, Peoria.

Memorial contributions may be made in Joan’s name to Woodland Baptist Church or Grand View Alzheimer’s Special Care Center.