Bill L. Adams, age 89, of Cahokia, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025. He was born on January 2, 1936, in Caraway, Arkansas, to Holden and Lucile Adams, and lived a full and meaningful life devoted to family, service, and hard work.
A proud U.S. veteran, Bill’s bravery and dedication to his country were a lasting source of inspiration to those around him.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 59 years, Nelda Adams; his parents; his brother Jay and sister-in-law Jean Adams; two sons, Donald and Marty Adams; and his daughter, Lisa Chamberlain.
Bill is survived by his children: Wilham Schenk (Anne), Steven McCarver (Loan), Billy Adams (Carla), Carole Moran (Kevin), and Steve Adams; his sister Linda Thompson (Larry); niece Terri Pratt (Jeff); 18 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren.
Later in life, Bill discovered his two eldest sons, Wilham and Steven, a blessing he was deeply grateful for. Their presence added even more joy and completeness to his life in his later years.
Bill had a great love for cooking—especially his chili and his famous “Bill Burgers.” He once owned his own restaurant and had a special nickname for just about everyone. He enjoyed classic westerns, good stories, and traveling the country with his wife—always finding time to stop at a casino or two.
He worked for several road service companies including APAC, Newcastle, and Safety-Kleen, where he served in management and held a U.S. patent for a method of using recycled oil as fuel.
Bill will be remembered for his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and deep love for his family.
"Spater when the moonshines!"
A visitation for Bill will be held on Thursday October 30, 2025 from 10:30 AM until time of memorial service at 12:30 PM at Hoffmeister South County Chapel 1515 Lemay Ferry Road, Lemay, MO 63125.
Committal service with full Military Honors will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery.
