It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Michael "Mike" Cromwell (81), who died peacefully surrounded by his family on July 9, 2024 after a fierce short battle with esophageal cancer. Mike lived a rich, fulfilling life marked by warmth, intelligence, curiosity, and his remarkable wit. His life touched many, and he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

Mike leaves behind his beloved wife, Shirley, daughter Michelle (Jay), and son Ken (Brigette). His grandchildren, to whom he was affectionately known as “Gandy”, are Michelle’s children Tripp, Ellie, and Kara Smith, and Ken and Brigette’s children Caroline and Fletcher Cromwell.

Mike was born April 6, 1943 to Pauline and Randolph “Ranny” Cromwell in Richmond, VA. He graduated from Benedictine High School in 1961 and went on to graduate with a degree in Business Administration from the University of Richmond in 1966. He began his career with Burlington Industries shortly thereafter and relocated to Greensboro, NC.

In 1966 he met his soulmate, Shirley, who was in nursing school at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. They were married on October 28, 1967 and enjoyed 57 wonderful years together.

In 1968 Mike’s Army reserve unit was activated and became the 312th Evac Hospital in Vietnam. He served until 1969.

For most of Mike’s career he was employed by Lilly Industrial Coatings with various positions taking him to Indianapolis and Memphis. In 1985, he earned his MBA from Wake Forest University. He retired from Oracle Software, and Mike and Shirley have enjoyed the good life in The Villages, FL for the last 10 years. Their mutual love of travel and Mike’s love of history resulted in multiple trips to Europe together and with their traveling friends. The entire family celebrated his 80th birthday in Florence, Italy.

Mike's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and service to others. He sought out opportunities to use his gifts in his church and community wherever possible. Most recently, he served as Treasurer of Lake Deaton United Methodist Church and enjoyed tutoring elementary school children with Tutors for Kids.

Mike was passionate about woodworking and found a “home away from home” at The Villages Woodshop. In addition to making many beautiful pieces that he gifted to family and friends, he generously volunteered his time so others could find joy as he had in this meaningful hobby.

He was especially fond of his couples golf group, making it a point to enjoy a weekly round followed by fellowship with this special group of friends.

At his core, Mike was a man who believed in acting with integrity at all times. This steadfast moral compass guided him in every aspect of life, from the most mundane decisions to the most significant choices. In turn, his ethos had a profound impact on those around him, shaping their perspectives even in his absence.

A Celebration of Life ceremony for Mike will take place on August 9, 2024, at 10:30 AM at Lake Deaton United Methodist Church in The Villages, FL. Through this ceremony, we hope to honor Mike's legacy, remember his life, and embrace the love that he left in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests that contributions be made to Lake Deaton United Methodist Church, 6500 Wesleyan Way, Wildwood, FL 34785 or to The Villages Woodworking Club, 704 Oak Street, The Villages, FL 32159.

We take comfort in knowing that Mike rests in the loving arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His spirit lives on in the values he instilled, the love he shared, and the impactful life he led. Though he is no longer with us physically, Mike's memory will forever remain etched in our hearts.

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