Steven Adams M.D.

Steven Townsel Adams, M.D., touched so many lives as a trusted physician, a luminous member of Louisville's social scene, and a beloved husband, son, brother and uncle. He was the consummate host, opening his beautiful home to numerous Derby hat parties that brought guests from far and wide, countless Christmas and dinner parties, his sister's wedding, and even a young boy's first birthday. His formative years in the 1960s and '70s fostered a lifelong love of disco and Motown. He not only collected art but needlepointed beautiful pieces himself. He brought his artistic talents to the stage as a longtime member of VOICES of Kentuckiana. He may have loved Christmas more than Santa himself. He opened his home and his heart to six Corgis over the years. He traveled the world with the love of his life. He gave others the courage to be their authentic selves. He helped save lives. He was fabulous.
Steve was born on September 5, 1957 in Louisville, Kentucky--the first child of Donna Holthouser and Townsel Lee` Adams. Steve passed away at his home in Louisville on May 10, 2024, with his family and dogs by his side.
Having graduated from Anderson County High School in 1975, Steve attended Transylvania University, was a member of Kappa Alpha Order and graduated Summa Cum Laude in 1979. He next graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and did his residency in anesthesiology.
Steve practiced medicine as a partner in General Anesthesia Services and then as a member of the anesthesia department at Jewish Hospital in downtown Louisville. Steve was universally respected for his clinical skills, adored by his coworkers and esteemed for his kind bedside manner.
In addition to being a long-time member of VOICES of Kentuckiana--a local LGBTQ+ chorus--he also held leadership positions with the organization. He was a co-founder of The Beaux Arts Ball, a black tie fundraising event for VOICES.
Steve was preceded in death by both his parents and his brother, Scott M. Adams. He is survived by his spouse of 32 years, Michael (nee Miller), as well as his brother, David (Barbara) Adams and his sister, Amy (Pete) Schirmer; his nieces and nephews Ashlyn, Courtlyn, Allison, Emily, Eric, Isaac, Charles Steven and Adam.
All are welcome to join in celebrating Steve's life Friday, May 17th at Highlands Funeral Home in Louisville. Visitation will be from 3 pm - 6 pm followed by a service at 6pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Animal Care Society or the Kentucky Humane Society. "Happiness is a warm puppy"--Charles M. Schultz