Adam Wayne Smallwood
July 7, 1968 – November 26, 2024
Chicago, IL, USA
life story
In loving memory of Adam Wayne Smallwood
In loving memory of Adam Wayne Smallwood
Adam, a man of boundless Love, laughter and talent, passed away on November 26, 2024 at the age of 56. Born on July 7th, 1968 in Columbus Ohio, he brightened every room with his infectious laughter and big heart.
A professional mechanic by trade, Adam had a gift for restoring life to what many thought was lost. Whether it was a vintage piece of music equipment, a struggling plant, an old broken down car, restoring and building a bike from the ground up. He saw potential and beauty where others did not. His passion for music was unmatched, and his ability to breathe new life into classic audio gear was a testament to his artistry and dedication. Adam knew exactly who he was, his character and morals never swayed.
Adam found Joy in the simple things in life, from biking in the scenic Chicago area with his wife-soulmate, Tami Smallwood, mushroom hunting in the woods in Ohio, where he was born and raised, and caring for his animals. He was an artist. He was a collector of things such as antiques, antique pottery-crocks, nascar memorabilia (Dale Earnhardt), vinyl records, vintage stereo equipment, tools, budweiser steins, hats, and converses. He had eclectic collections he spent decades finding and refurbishing throughout his life. He adored his daily FaceTime moments with his amazing daughter and grandson sharing laughs, stories and memories that will be cherished forever. He was the epitome of a long distance grandfather and a perfect example of a Pap. Pappy Adam was such a huge part of Bronxs' life no matter what the distance was, and was always there for his family every step of the way.
Those who knew him will remember his wild heart, his ability to make everyone he loved feel special and the way his laughter could lift the heaviest hearts. Adam had a way of making life a brighter place, and his absence leaves an irreplaceable void. He found sobriety and overcame many obstacles. He was passionate helping addicts find their way to sobriety and peace. He always made time through his work to educate and teach people all throughout his journeys in his life.
Survived by his wife, Tami Renee Smallwood; Daughter, Alixandra Dawn Smallwood; Grandson, Bronx Kyler Boldman; Step Son, Mickey Jacob Rhodes; Step Daughter, Chelsey Gabrielle Rhodes Wemmer; Step Daughter, Kaylee Marie Rhodes; Father, Russell (Chris) Keith Smallwood; Brother, Jason (Kay) Keith Smallwood; Aunt, Jerri S Kelly; Cousins, Christopher Long and Sommer Rotolo; Uncle, Lynn (Sue Alban); Sister, Jonna (Jason) Leigh Rhodes; Sister, Ashley (Chad) Brooke Rinehart; Niece, Regan Ashleigh Shreve; Nephew, Tanner Keith Smallwood.
Adam was proceeded in death by his mother, Mary Ellen Manning; his Grandparents, Paul and Mary Virginia Alban; his Nephew, Austin Keith Smallwood; his Niece, Sierra Savannah Smallwood; his beloved dog kid, Violet Smallwood (Vi Bear) he adored so much.