Molly Cromwell

Molly Cromwell, a woman of boundless love, infectious laughter, and an unyielding passion for life, left this world on November 10, 2023, just a week shy of her 85th birthday, surrounded by family and friends.

Born on November 18, 1938, in Peoria, Illinois, Molly was the daughter of the late Robert Fort Cowan and Fay Kathryn Eastman Sexton. A 1956 graduate of Woodruff High School in Peoria, IL and a 1960 proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI; Molly's academic achievements were just the beginning of a life dedicated to learning, a love for exploring diverse cultures and a commitment to service.

Molly faced life's challenges with grace, navigating the seas of change with a smile. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James H. Cromwell, Sr., her stepfather William D. Sexton, and her sister and brother-in-law, Barbara (Lynn) Griffith. Though they have left this world, their memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved them.

Left to cherish her memory are her five adoring children: Tad (Janet) Cromwell of Annandale, VA; Marshall (Edie) Cromwell of Arlington, VA; Mary (Billy) Krueger of Potomac Falls, VA; Graham (Jim) Gray of Nashville, TN; and Amanda (Megs) Cromwell of Los Angeles, CA. Her legacy continues through her nine grandchildren, Margret, James, and Alex Cromwell; Connor and Mckenna Cromwell; William and Wyatt Krueger; and Calvin and Emery Gray—each a source of immeasurable joy in her life.

Molly's sister, Julie (Robert) Novak, and her brother, Robert Cowan, along with nieces and nephews, also survive her. Among them, nephews Andrew, Chris, and Nick Novak, and Trent (Jan) Griffith and niece Laura Griffith, each carry forward the bonds of family and love that Molly held dear.

Upon graduating from the University of Wisconsin, Molly embarked on a journey that took her to Switzerland, where she spent a transformative year teaching English at The American School. She returned to the States to marry the love of her life, James "Jim" Cromwell 12/30/1961. Molly's affiliation with the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority provided a welcoming sisterhood as she transitioned to life in Virginia.

While Jim served as a Congressional liaison on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC; Molly devoted herself to raising their five children. Even amidst the demands of motherhood, she found time for numerous volunteer opportunities with organizations such as the YWCA, Fairfax Symphony, WNVT-TV, and the Wolftrap Foundation. Her impact was truly unforgettable, especially through her role in running the Channel 53 Great TV Auction and producing the International Children's Festival at Wolftrap.

Molly's professional journey was marked by nearly 25 years of distinguished service in fundraising and development. She served as the Director of Development for Holton-Arms School, followed by Georgetown Preparatory School. Her illustrious career culminated as the Vice President of University Advancement for Marymount University where she retired in 1994.

A hobby turned convocation, Molly's passion for dollhouses and miniatures led her to organize eight annual shows from Massachusetts to Florida. As her passion evolved, she introduced the Molly Cromwell Presents...Trips and Tours, leading enthusiasts on unforgettable journeys abroad. Her impact resonated globally, earning her well-deserved recognition in the miniature community. Her enthusiasm about the hobby was contagious. FUN Fact: Impressively, Molly's intelligence shone through as she advanced through multiple rounds in her pursuit to become a contestant on Jeopardy!

Molly's passing has left a void that words cannot fill, but her legacy of love, warmth, and joy will endure in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her. Her ability to find joy in the simplest of moments, her warm companionship, and her unwavering passion for life will be cherished and remembered by friends and family alike.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the link below in honor of Molly's spirit of giving and compassion.

As we come together to celebrate the extraordinary life of Molly Ann Cowan Cromwell, the family would welcome you to join them at any one of the services listed below.

The livestream for Molly's service at Annandale United Methodist can be copied here: https://annandaleunitedmethodist.subspla.sh/pm764bb

May she rest in eternal peace.