Page created by: Elizabeth Adam

Brian Damian Adam, 68, passed away on December 26, 2023 peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving wife and daughters. “Big B”, as he was called by many, was a loyal teammate, loving husband, proud and dedicated father, doting grandfather, reliable friend, and gentle giant.

Born on August 12, 1955 in Ridley Park, PA to the late Gertrude and Robert Adam, Brian was the 5th of 8 Adam children. He spent his youth running around Ridley with his buddies (one day calling themselves, the “Gentlemen of Ridley”) and trying not to get in trouble with the nuns at his Catholic school. Sports were a driving force in his life from day 1.

Brian attended Ridley High School, where he wrestled and played football. From Ridley, he continued his football career at the Naval Academy Prep school for one year. After deciding that Navy life was not for him, he started as a Tight End at the University of Delaware from 1974 to 1978.  Brian co-captained the team in 1977 and set numerous records during his time as a Blue Hen. He still holds the single game reception mark for a tight end with 12 receptions in the 1977 game against Villanova. Brian was inducted into the DELCO 2022 Hall of Fame and in Ridley High School’s Hall of Fame. It was on campus his Junior year that he met the love of his life, Harriet.

After college, Brian and Harriet wed in Annapolis in 1983. They moved to Hunt Meadow in Annapolis from Virginia in 1987 where they would raise 3 daughters - Jessica, Anastasia, and Elizabeth.  Brian became the ultimate girl dad, and the family made lifelong friendships. In 2002 they made the short move north to Boone Trail in Severna Park, where Brian fell in love with the Severn River. Though he would say otherwise, he was a mediocre captain but made up for his nautical shortcomings with enthusiasm.

Brian’s professional career started after he received his MBA at Widener University and joined US Air, then Amtrak where he rose through the ranks to Treasurer, then acting CFO. He left Amtrak to pursue Investment Banking at Capstar Partners in New York City. Although he loved the energy of the city, he took a job at Suntrust Bank in Baltimore to be closer to his girls. He was always passionate about renewable energy and had the opportunity to start Chesapeake Solar Investments, where he was a Principal until his retirement. 

Brian’s unofficial career was a coach. He spent his weekends coaching his daughters in various recreational league sports. He did not hold that title for their high school or college teams, but his voice could still be heard loud and clear from the sidelines at every game, always with words of encouragement or reminding them to “get low.” 

To know Brian was to love him. He radiated optimism and openness. Brian’s favorite phrase, heard every morning at Boone Trail, was “Great day to be alive!” An initial Parkinson’s and eventual MSA diagnosis 10 years ago put that optimism to the test. Brian fought his battle courageously to the end with a resilient spirit and a smile on his face.

Brian found great comfort and support in the the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s resources and research initiatives throughout his fight. Thank you for honoring Big B 💙