Joan “Joanie” Wilson Cromwell, 74, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed peacefully from this life at her home on May 13, 2026. A woman of Catholic faith, boundless kindness, and a warm and generous spirit, Joanie touched the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know her.
Born on June 7, 1951, in Timbo, Arkansas, to Olen and Elma (Fletcher) Wilson, Joanie was raised in the Arkansas hills alongside her younger sister and brother. She graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 1973 and later earned a Master’s degree in psychology. She then worked in the school system in Little Rock, Arkansas, before making her way to Memphis, Tennessee. Joanie made her home in Memphis, where she built her family. Later, her love of the Gulf Coast drew her through Seacrest Beach, Florida and Fairhope, Alabama, before settling in Gulfport, Mississippi.
From Memphis to Gulfport, Joanie spent over 15 fulfilling years as an employee of Chico’s, where her gracious nature shone so brightly. No matter where her journey through life took her, Joanie carried her warmth and her faith with her. She is best remembered for how she lived — through her profound compassion and unwavering love for others, everyone felt her presence.
On November 3, 2001, she married Jason Cromwell, and together they built a life filled with adventure, laughter, and cherished memories. Among their favorite destinations were the majestic mountains of North Carolina, a place that held a special piece of Joanie’s heart. She delighted in travel and the beauty of the mountains, always happiest when surrounded by family — including her beloved and faithful furry companion, Buddy.
At home, Joanie could often be found curled up with a good book, working through a crossword puzzle, tackling a word game from the newspaper, or piecing together a jigsaw puzzle with quiet contentment. Her grandchildren, Ethan and Lilah, who lovingly called her Gree-maw, were among her greatest joys in life, and she cherished every moment spent loving on them.
Joanie was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Olen and Elma Wilson. She is survived by her husband, Jason Cromwell; her sons, Phillip Kreth and Matthew Kreth and his wife, Suzanne; her grandchildren, Ethan and Lilah Kreth; her sister, Janet Eunson and her husband, Bob; her brother, Jerry Wilson and his wife, Tammy; and her constant companion, Buddy.
A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at Pordue Cemetery in Onia, Arkansas, where Joanie will be laid to eternal rest beside her parents. Brother Gary Don Fletcher will be officiating.
Roller Crouch Funeral Home is in charge of these arrangements.
