State Representative Paul W. Crowley, champion for children, 1949-2007
Yesterday, we learned of the passing of one of Rhode Island’s longest serving state legislators, Rep. Paul W. Crowley. Earlier today, Chairman Lynch sent out the email below inviting people to share a memory of Paul or offer condolences to his family via this site.
From the chairman:
Yesterday, Rhode Island lost a true leader who embodied everything that is good and right with public service. Rep. Paul W. Crowley was a champion and legislative giant in the Rhode Island House of Representatives, serving the people of his beloved Newport for nearly three decades.
Paul cared about the things that were important to all Rhode Islanders. He pushed for reforms, even when they weren’t popular, and passionately pursued efforts to bring increased accountability to our public schools.
He stood up for the people of his community, leading the charge to scrutinize insurance companies who passed outrageous premiums on to coastal homeowners.
Above all, Paul was respected by leaders from both sides of the aisle because of the quality of his character and willingness to never back down from a fight. His warm smile and affable nature drew people to him, and he was always quick to grace the room with a tune from his Irish ancestry.
He was a man of his word, and his presence in the General Assembly with be missed for years to come.
Today the thoughts and prayers of all Rhode Island Democrats go out to Paul’s wife, Diana, his three children and the entire Crowley family.
We’ve dedicated some space at A Blog Called Hope where you can share a memory of Paul, or post condolences to his family and friends.
Our friend Paul has left us far too early, but his legacy will live on through his family, those he cared about, and the good people of his district. Today, we remember Paul’s lasting contributions to our community and say ‘thank you’ for a lifetime of dedicated public service.
September 25th, 2007 at 12:47 pm
Rep. Crowley will certainly be missed. As a resident of the island I always took notice of all the wonderful accomplishments Paul had achieved for our community and our state. His contributions will be missed!
September 25th, 2007 at 1:27 pm
Paul was a good man, with a big heart. He always made time for people. St. Patrick’s Day won’t be the same with out him.
September 25th, 2007 at 1:32 pm
Yesterday,
Many of us lost much more than a State Representative.
I lost a neighbor and a great friend. Paul had been a mentor in my life since I first interned for the House Finance Committee back in the mid 80’s.
It can be only hoped that many will lack to Paul’s leadership and character examples for guidance.
September 25th, 2007 at 1:35 pm
Hoping the wonderful sentiments from his many friends and constituents will help to console you in this time of sadness and grief. May God welcome him Home and may he help you in your time of need.
September 25th, 2007 at 1:44 pm
I was so shocked to hear of Paul Crowley’s passing. He was a man who stood up for his beliefs, and who made a difference in the lives of his neighbors on the Island.
My condolences to his many friends and family.
Requiest in pace, Paul Crowley.
September 25th, 2007 at 1:58 pm
My condolenses to Paul’s Family. He was a great leader for Newport and he loved it here. We thank you for sharing him with us. He left a loving legacy to Newport and to Rhode Island. May God Bless him and all of you.
September 25th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
Although I did not know Paul Crowley well, he seemed like a very nice man. His contributions to Newport and this state are greatly appreciated and he will be sorely missed. Peace.
September 25th, 2007 at 4:21 pm
I have been an elected official in Warren for 31 years and during that time I have always tried to emulate dedicated public officials like Paul Crowley. He was certainly devoted to his community, but more importantly, he was a decent, compassionate, and honest representative who always put the people of this fine state before his own interests.
My condolences to his family and friends.
September 25th, 2007 at 5:17 pm
Our condolenses to Paul’s family. Paul was a true champion of the needy and will be greatly missed in the General Assembly. We thank him most for his assistance with and sponsering School Bus Safety Legislation in the mid 80’s. As a result of this legislation no Rhode Island school child has lost their lives in a school bus relatated accident in 22 years. Thank you Paul.
September 25th, 2007 at 5:20 pm
I did not know Paul personally, however I would like to extend my condolences to his friends and family. He will not be easily replaced in our memories.
September 25th, 2007 at 8:24 pm
During my 31 years as an elected official in Warren I have emulated dedicated public officials like Paul Crowley. He was certainly devoted to his community and was a decent, compassionate and honest representative who always put the needs of the people of this fine state first.
My condolences to his family and friends.
September 26th, 2007 at 8:46 am
My heart felt sympathy to the family of Paul Crowley. Not only has Newport suffered a great loss but the State of Rhode Island will truly miss Paul. Paul stood tall on all the important issues facing RI. from the constant budgetary issues to his constant spearheading of education reform. If one needed to know what effects an education bill would have on their district or the State, most Reps myself included would always see Paul for am in dept discussion on the merits of the Bill.
To use a quote that would aptly describe Paul He was a Representative “of the people, for the people, and by the people”
To say Paul will sorely be missed would be a gross understatement, Paul was a gentleman on the Floor as well as off the Floor.
My heartfelt condolences to the Crowley Family !!!
Paul D. Santilli
Former Rep Johnston
September 27th, 2007 at 5:42 pm
We are saddened by the passing of our neighbor and state representative, Paul Crowley. We wish to extend our condolences to his family and close friends. Newport has lost a friend and advocate, and our state has lost a significant voice on behalf of the people and policies for whom Paul rallied. May his hard work be carried on by those he most influenced. We thank you,
Kathleen and Mike Blank
October 11th, 2007 at 11:15 am
Rhode Island has lost a true class act and dedicated public servant. Condolences to the family of Representative Crowley. Thank you for your service to the state.