Caroll J. Adams
Caroll J Adams (Griggs), born on March 22nd, 1947, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away on November 19th, 2024.
A beloved mother and grandmother, Caroll is predeceased by her parents Fred and Adeline Griggs and son Wendell Adams.
Caroll is survived by her children, LaDonna Perfater, and Brenda Miller. Grandchildren, Melissa Fredrich, Andrea Belosi, Jennifer Perfater, Nicholas Wilhelm, Gabriel Wilhelm, Christopher Perfater. Siblings Darlene Adams, Linda Woods, and Fred Griggs.
Caroll approached everything she did with determination and diligence. Whether she was
tirelessly sorting packages at UPS or ensuring things ran smoothly at the Schnucks bakery thrift store, she gave her all to the task at hand. She didn’t seek recognition or praise—she worked because it was simply what needed to be done. Her integrity and perseverance left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Though Caroll wasn’t always one to express her emotions openly, her love and compassion shone through in unexpected ways. She had a special bond with her cats, treating them as trusted companions in a world she often kept at arm’s length. When her beloved cats passed, she turned her attention to the possums that wandered into her backyard. With characteristic practicality, she offered them food—not out of sentimentality, but as a quiet acknowledgment of their place in the
world.
Caroll’s appreciation for these misunderstood creatures extended to sharing facts about them: how their tails helped them climb, how their short lives reflected the harshness of their existence, and how their instinct to play dead was their way of surviving. She didn’t try to change their lives or the world around them; she simply accepted them as they were, offering her small act of care without fanfare.
In many ways, Caroll’s life mirrored the possums she observed: unassuming, resilient, and deeply rooted in survival. She wasn’t one for outward warmth, but her steadfast actions spoke volumes. She didn’t have to say she cared—her hard work, her consistency, and her unwavering presence were proof enough. She had often helped those in need.
As we say goodbye, we honor Caroll for the life she lived: a life defined by grit,
independence, and a quiet but enduring sense of purpose. She may not have sought the spotlight, but she left an indelible mark on those who knew her, teaching us the value of living on our own terms and finding beauty in life’s quiet moments.
Rest in peace, Caroll. Your strength and spirit will remain with us always.
A memorial service will be held on December 7th, 2024 at St. Louis Cremation, 2135 Chouteau Ave, St. Louis, MO, 63103.
Caroll always had a smile on her face and told the most hilarious stories!
~ Her laugh was contagious!!
We were running errands last month and I decided to grab some pizza for us. Instead of waiting to get home, I suggested we eat in the car. Grandma’s face lit up, like a kid getting away with something. “You’re going to let me eat in the car?” she asked, surprised.
I nodded, and she smiled like it was the best thing ever. As we ate our squares, she giggling..It was such a small thing, but seeing her so excited over eating pizza in the car made it feel special.
I was Caroll’s neighbor for years on Sidney. We bonded over our love of cats and she was my 2 boys’ (cats) grandma. She would feed them and let me know what they were up to. She made me feel like it was a true community… good neighbors are hard to come by in the city. I thought the world of her and felt special being one of the few she would call if she needed anything. We also loved watching my boys run amuck with the mama opposum we named Glenda. I’ll always remember her.
And to the person who wrote this beautiful obituary… it is the most wonderful tribute to her and you obviously put so much thought and love into it. Your words made me tear up. I wish everyone who was lucky enough to know her a happy new year.