Shawn P. Adair

Shawn P. Adair, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on May 17, 2025, at the age of 64. Born on April 5, 1961, in the heart of Philadelphia, Port Richmond, Shawn lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and an ever-present sense of humor.
A proud graduate of Northeast Catholic High School for Boys, Class of 1979, Shawn carried the spirit of his school and his Philly roots with him throughout his life. Raised in Port Richmond and a former student of Nativity BVM, he remained loyal to his community and never missed an opportunity to lend a hand, offer a smile, or play Santa Claus--literally--to children far and wide, regardless of whether they were family or complete strangers. Shawn will always be remembered and especially during the families annual fishing tournament, Big Jim's Big Fish Tournament. The Tournament was a great family tradition that led to great memories, but it also did great charitable work as well. Whether donating the proceeds from Big Jim's Big Fish, volunteering at St. George's during Covid, and even making goodie bags for St. Francis Inn, Kensington, Shawn was always there to lend a helping hand.
Shawn is lovingly remembered by his devoted siblings: Gerald (Lee), Loretta Savage (Jack), Anne Marie, James G. Jr. (Mary Kay), Daniel (Gale), Kevin (Susan), Mary Valenzano (Richard), and Eileen Adair. He was the fun, thoughtful uncle to 14 nieces and nephews, the cool great-uncle to 11, and the magical great-great uncle to 2. Shawn will also be missed by his many cousins and friends. His generosity knew no limits, and his heart had room for many, including his treasured friend Marlene Staico-Sortino.
He was the cherished son of the late James and Anne Adair, who surely welcomed him with open arms. Whether he was advocating for animals with the Philadelphia SPCA or making holidays brighter as everyone's favorite Santa, Shawn always put others before himself, earning him a space in the hearts of all who knew him.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22nd, at 11:00 a.m., where a viewing will be held prior from 9:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church 2535 E. Allegheny Ave. Phila, PA, with interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. As we say our goodbyes, we celebrate a life that radiated joy, compassion, and the kind of love that truly made the world a better place.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Shawn's name to Lazarus House Ministries, Inc. PO Box 179 Wildwood, NJ. 08260. And St. Jerome Food Pantry 8100 Colfax St. Phila. PA. 19136.