Mary Louise Adams, 69, of Tewksbury, Massachusetts resident for 36 years, formerly of Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates, Illinois, and Emlenton, Pennsylvania, passed away at home on June 21, 2020, after battling pancreatic cancer.

She was a daughter of the late Robert R. and Marie (Mimi) L. Best (Linotte) of Emlenton, and beloved wife for 46 years of Russell L. Adams, formerly of New Wilmington.

Mary Lou is also survived by a sister, Nadine Karl of Franklin; two sons, Matthew R. (Sarah) Adams of Chicago and Jonathan R. (Sharon Bielik) Adams of Stoneham, Massachusetts; a granddaughter, Eliana; and two grandsons, Owen and Daniel. Mary Lou was also a beloved aunt to her niece and two nephews, and was dearly loved by her many Belgian relatives.

An elementary school teacher in Illinois and Massachusetts, Mary Lou developed a local Tewksbury history unit for the town's elementary schools.

She was an active member and proud supporter of the Tewksbury Congregational Church. Most recently, she served on the Board of Ministries and co-chaired the Pastoral Search Committee for the current pastor. Previously, she had chaired the Religious Education and Membership Committees, among others, had founded Friendship Circle and an Evening Group for women, and was an original member of Called to Care, supporting members in need.

A memorial service for Mary Lou will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 21, 2021, at Castle View Memorial Gardens, 3010 Wilmington Road, New Castle, with interment immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a memorial fund in her name at Tewksbury Congregational Church, Memorial Gifts, 10 East St., Tewksbury, Mass. 01876.