William "Bill" Cromwell

William "Bill" Cromwell departed this world on Sept. 6, 2013, after a full life marked by his kindness and service to others. Bill, son of the late William J. Cromwell and the late Mr. and Mrs. Jim Tilley, was raised in Harrison as the oldest of seven siblings. Known as "Bear" to his close friends, he received both his bachelor's and juris doctorate degrees from the University of Arkansas. In 1972, he married the love of his life, Jan Rose Cromwell, and followed her to Fort Smith in 1976. His legal career included private practice at Rose, Kinsey, and Cromwell before going on to serve his country as an Assistant United States Attorney. During his time in the U.S. Attorney's office, he twice served as the U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Arkansas, testified before Congress on criminal justice and drug policy, and acted as the Criminal Chief. He leaves behind a legacy marked by the pursuit of justice, as reflected in the letters received over the years, revealing gratitude from victims, respect from opposing counsel, and appreciation from other government agencies for his support and service in prosecuting violent crime. He was a member of Sigma Chi Fraternity and the Arkansas Trial Lawyer's Association, served as president of the Hardscrabble Country Club Board of Directors, and taught at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith. He also learned how to make the world's best steak from Herman Tuck himself, of Herman's Ribhouse in Fayetteville. Known for two uniforms, a suit and tie or Big Smith overalls and a button down, he was a man who would debate points of current politics and considered sugar as sacrilege in his cornbread; which all added up to the fact that he was a great example of what education in the South can produce. But perhaps his greatest passion, other than his family, was wading into a river in "hopes a rainbow would rise." His happiest days were spent in waders with friends, and he taught his children the art of fly fishing. During 38 years of marriage, Bill and Jan fully lived within the essence of their vows as they created a family together that included humor, loyalty and love. Through sickness, health, happiness and time, they built a life and a home as a team. Their children will always remember the "I got you babe" outlook that their parents embodied regardless of the challenges they faced. His generosity of spirit lives on in his two children, Crosby and Joseph Cash; his daughter-in law, Cara and their soon to arrive son, William Knight Cromwell. Crosby and Joseph Cash will forever view their father and his guidance as the truest symbol of love. Bill is also survived by his siblings Jan Cromwell, Jill Rusher, Jimmy Tilley, Ab Tilley, Mary Ann Robinson and Albert Tilley and their families, and his mother-in-law Mildred Rose. A visitation with the family will be held on Wednesday evening, Sept. 11, 2013, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Edwards Funeral Home with a private family memorial service at a later time. Cremation is under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Donations may be made in Bill's honor at the Good Samaritan Clinic, 615 North B Street, Fort Smith, AR 72901. To contribute to an online guestbook, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.