A Celebration of Panton Adams

* Click here to watch a replay of Panton's Zoom celebration * 

Head of School Laura Danforth opened the virtual service, which was also attended by Adams’ family, with a moment of silence to honor a great man and beloved member of our community.” 

Adams, who worked in the School's security department since 2013, died of complications related to COVID-19, on Monday, February 1, at the age of 64. He was a familiar presence on campus, best known for his warm smile and kindhearted ways.

Students, parents, faculty and staff took turns to share personal reflections.

Alex Wang ’21 will cherish the shared moments they had. Chief Financial Officer Ed Biddle spoke of Adams’ uncanny ability to remember everyone’s name. Ally Tarter ’25 said Adams “reflected our community because he was a ‘power for good.’” Masters Dance Company Director Shell Benjamin reminded the audience how “he kept watch over everything so we could shine and feel secure.” Director of Safety & Security Victor Seguinot shared fond memories of their chats about everything from accomplishments to family and Jamaica, a country Adams loved and missed.

A slideshow remembering Panton Adams:

There were “six-word tributes” displayed during the ceremony along with a video presentation accompanied by the song “Landslide,” performed by the student-led band, 49 Clinton.

Adams’ younger daughter, Kelsey, closed the evening with a beautiful and heartwarming rendition of one of her father’s favorite songs, “O’Lord,” by singer-songwriter Lauren Daigle. 

Danforth said we will always hold Adams’ family in our hearts and announced that in the spring, the School will plant a tree and add a bench near the Middle School in Adams’ memory.

* Click here to watch the six-word tributes to Panton *