Dr. Stewart "Stew" L. Adams, a dedicated educator and beloved family member, passed away peacefully on September 6, 2025, at the age of 76. Born on June 18, 1949, in Moline, Illinois to Henrietta (Jones) and Robert Adams Jr., Stewart spent his formative years in the Quad Cities, graduating from Rock Island High School in the Class of 1967. After high school, Stew went on to earn his Masters in Education. He later pursued his education further and graduated with a Doctorate in Education from Illinois State University.

Stewart was a devoted special education teacher, passionately serving the Rock Island/Milan School District for many years. He was a proud member of the Rock Island Education Association, the Illinois Education Association, and the National Education Association, reflecting his commitment to the education profession and the betterment of students' lives.

Stewart is survived by his brothers, Steven, Robert (Elizabeth), and Sidney (Theresa) Adams; and his sister, Sherry Adams. He will be dearly missed by family, friends, colleagues, and all whom he touched through his work in education. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Scott Adams.

Funeral services for Dr. Stewart L. Adams will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at 10:30 am at Grace Church PCUSA, 2324 18th Ave, Rock Island, IL. Friends and family are invited to gather to pay their respects and celebrate his life during the visitation on Thursday, September 11, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island. Burial will take place in Chippiannock Cemetery, Rock Island.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to Illinois State University in care of the Dr. Stewart L. Adams Scholarship.

Condolences may be shared with the family on the Tribute Wall.