Cliff's obituary
Clifford Alan Cromwell, 73, a cherished husband, father, teacher, and community member, passed away unexpectedly on December 18, 2024. Born on September 24, 1951 in Fort Worth, Texas to Margie Ruth Creecy and Jesse Andrew Cromwell, Cliff grew up with a deep appreciation for learning, music, and family connections—passions that would define his life and legacy.
A devoted educator, he taught for 23 years in the Lake Forest School District, inspiring countless students with his enthusiasm, compassion, and creativity. He believed in the transformative power of education and worked tirelessly to make his classroom a welcoming space where every student felt seen and valued.
Music was a central part of Cliff’s life and played a pivotal role in his story. He met his beloved wife, Lois, in choir at Clarion State College, where their shared passion for singing brought them together. Over the years, he lent his voice to countless choral performances, sharing his talent and love for harmony with audiences near and far. He was still singing up until the Saturday before he passed.
His love for reading and storytelling was equally profound. As a lifelong reader, he not only nurtured his own curiosity but also shared his passion with others through his volunteer work at the Round Rock Public Library. In addition, Cliff dedicated countless hours to tracing his family’s genealogy, uncovering stories and connections that deepened his understanding of his heritage. His meticulous research and boundless curiosity brought history to life for those around him.
Cliff was also a pillar of his community, serving for countless hours over the years as an Odyssey of the Mind judge, where he encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and teamwork in young participants. His enthusiasm for fostering innovation and exploration in others was evident in every facet of his life.
He leaves behind his beloved wife of 47 years, Lois; his children, Chris and Lee; his brother Rich, sister-in-law Barb, sister-in-law Jill, brother-in-law Craig; nephews and nieces Andy, Gina, Chris, Josh, Trey, Jesse, Sarah, Brian, Seth, Stacey (and their families), along with a host of friends and former students who will forever remember his warmth, generosity, and wisdom.
The family will remember Cliff with a private graveside service to be held at Rice Cemetery (in Cameron, Texas). In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Round Rock Community Choir, Round Rock Public Library, and Texas Odyssey of the Mind in his honor. Cliff’s memory will live on in the countless lives he touched through his teaching, music, love of reading, and dedication to family history.