Paul Thomas "Tommy" Adams

Paul Thomas “Tommy” Adams, 78, of Kannapolis, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Tucker Hospice House.

Born in Iredell County, he was the son of the late Clyde Butler Adams Sr. and Mary “Kathryn” Upright Adams. Paul proudly served his country in the U.S. Army before beginning a long and dedicated career with Phillip Morris, where he worked for 25 years until his retirement. In his later years, he found joy working alongside his brother Frank, repairing lawn mowers and small engines.

Paul was a simple man who found joy in the things he loved most. He was an avid rabbit hunter and valued the time he spent outdoors with his beagles. He enjoyed playing pinochle with his brothers and was known to be a tough opponent at the table. Paul enjoyed both playing and watching sports, especially baseball, football, and softball, and was a devoted fan of the Yankees and the Braves. He took pride in his garden and was always willing to share the fruits of his labor with friends and neighbors. Above all, Paul treasured his family and found his greatest joy in being a grandfather.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by five brothers and two sisters. He is survived by one brother and two sisters.

Paul’s memory will be lovingly honored by his wife of 58 years, Nena London Adams; his daughter Paula Gilleland and her husband Ray; his son Rodney Adams and his wife Michelle; two grandchildren, Gracyn Welch and her husband Clifton, and Charlee Adams; and one great-granddaughter, Wrenlee Welch.

A celebration of Paul’s life will be held at 3:00 PM on Friday, May 1, 2026, at First Reformed Church in Landis, with Pastor David Franks officiating and Doug Adams delivering a special message. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00 PM prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Cabarrus County Hospice and Palliative Care, 5003 Hospice Lane, Kannapolis, NC 28081.