Jean M. Mcadams

Jean Marie (Henderson) McAdams, age 72, was born on August 22, 1951, and passed away on November 1, 2023. The world lost a light wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, friend, Mama Jean through her many titles, she illuminated all whom she met. Jeans humor was legendary, her laugh spectacular, and her generous heart bottomless. Jean received her degree in Early Childhood Development from Western Illinois University where she met her husband, Steven C. McAdams. Jean and Steve were married on September 2, 1972, and lived most of their adult lives in Green Valley, Illinois, where they raised their two children, Dustin McAdams and Joy McAdams. Jean thrived when loving those around her. She cherished each of her 51 years married to Steve. Being a mother was secondary, only possibly to being a grandma. Jean nurtured her friendships and shared her whole life with her dear sister. When anyone in Jeans life needed help, she was the first to lend a hand, her time, or her ear. Her encouragement, knowledge, and love was freely shared and appreciated by all in her life. Jean looked forward to summers in the Northwoods for decades with family and friends. Holidays were always sweeter with her coveted pies. Throughout her life, Jean actively participated in her community serving on multiple boards. Jean, alongside Steve, devoted much of her life for the love and betterment of Newfoundland dogs. She was regarded as a steward of the breed and absolutely radiated when in the presence of Newfs regardless of if she was raising puppies, water rescue training, or the myriad of other regional, national, and international contributions to those gentle giants. After 20 years, Jean retired from Illinois Central College where she had been the Registrar and the Coordinator of Instructional Services. Prior, Jean worked for Tazewell County helping to equip unemployed job seekers with new and advanced skills. Jean was loved by so many. Her greatest loves were her husband Steve, her children, her grandchildren, and the many friends who became extended family to Jean. She will be forever missed. Jean was preceded in death by her parents. Robert and Mable (Easley) Henderson in Monmouth, Illinois. She is survived by: her husband Steve; one son, Dustin (Katie) McAdams of Glenview, Illinois; and one daughter, Joy McAdams of La Grange, Illinois; three grandchildren, Nora, Jack and Isla; and one sister, Janice Henderson of Green Valley. Her funeral service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, November 6, 2023, at Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory in Pekin with Pastor Katherine Willis Pershey officiating. A visitation will be held the night prior from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Sunday, November 5, 2023, also at the funeral home. Burial will be in Green Valley Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation Donate) or the River King Newfoundland Club. Funeral Service Monday, November 6, 2023 2:00 PM Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554 Visitation Sunday, November 5, 2023 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Henderson Funeral Home & Crematory 2131 Velde Dr. Pekin,IL 61554