OBITUARY: Former Merritt Island Christian Athletic Director Jim Cromwell Dies at Age 72
By Space Coast Daily // November 26, 2020
Coached MICS basketball team, Helped Launch school's football program
Jim “Coach” Cromwell, formerly of Merritt Island, passed away peacefully at his home in Pensacola, Florida on November 14, 2020, at the age of 72.
Jim is survived by his wife, Rebecca Cromwell (Page); and his children, Brooke Cromwell; Thomas Cromwell and children Samuel and Noelle; James Cromwell and daughter Aviles; and Justin and Mary Pavlischek and children Sophia, Sidney, Augustine, Catherine and Elizabeth. He is also survived by his siblings Roseann Snyder and Robert Cromwell.
Jim was born on February 13, 1948, in Williamsburg, KY to Thomas and Alma Cromwell.
Jim was a veteran of the United States Air Force who served his country proudly in Vietnam. A lifelong learner, Jim graduated from Liberty University and went into the field of education.
In 1978, he married Rebecca Page, and over the course of five years, he and Rebecca welcomed four children into their family. Jim set about instilling in his children a love of basketball, the Kentucky Wildcats, and how to follow the heart of God.
His children remember him as a larger than life father who encouraged their interests, took an active role in their lives, and loved them fiercely and unconditionally.
Being a gifted communicator, Jim was a kind, generous and caring man who loved to teach and coach basketball. Jim had a zeal for life and was passionate in his love for his students, players, friends and family.
Those close to Jim know that he changed the life of countless people through his warm conversation and willingness to help in any time of need. His home was known as a refuge from the storm for those hurting, and a second home to many of his students and players over the years.
Jim was a fervent believer in Jesus Christ and established his non-profit basketball camp, Camp of Champs, as his ministry to serve others.
A celebration of life memorial service is scheduled for 11 a.m. on December 7 at New Life Christian Fellowship, located on Hodges Boulevard in Jacksonville, Florida.
For those unable to attend, the service will be streamed on social media. Please follow CDC protocol and wear a mask in addition to social distancing.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Gary Sinise Foundation in Jim’s memory at www.garysinisefoundation.org.
