William 'Bill' Cromwell

William 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. Bill 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. His 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. 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. Donations may be made in Bill's honor at the Good Samaritan Clinic, 615 North B Street, Fort Smith, Ark. 72901. To contribute to an online guestbook, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com.