Cullen Crowley Remembered: A Legacy of Strength, Service, and Spirit
The passing of Cullen Crowley has left a deep and heartfelt impact on all who knew him — from his devoted family and friends to the wider communities he touched. A proud Marine and son of former Congressman Joe Crowley, Cullen’s courageous battle with a rare cancer and his unwavering dedication to serving his country remain lasting testaments to his character and resilience.
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Cullen passed away on May 26, 2025, following more than two years of determined treatment against Desmoplastic Small Round Cell Tumor (DSRCT), a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Joe Crowley took to Instagram to share the sorrowful news, honoring his son with heartfelt photos and cherished memories that spanned from Cullen’s childhood to his recent years.
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“With heavy hearts, our family — Kasey, Kenzie, Liam, and I — share the loss of our beloved son and brother, Cullen Crowley,” Joe wrote. “His zest for life was magnetic. Cullen had a way of bringing joy into every space he entered.”
In his tribute, Joe recalled moments that painted a vivid picture of who Cullen was — someone who could make everyday moments feel extraordinary. Whether strumming his guitar on a quiet night or dancing wherever music played, Cullen’s joyful energy and compassionate soul left a mark on everyone he met. Yet beneath that joy lived a powerful sense of mission.
Cullen’s journey toward service began early. At age 12, after attending a Navy football game, he made it his goal to enter the U.S. Naval Academy.
That dream came true in 2018 when he enrolled, later graduating in 2022 and proudly earning the title of United States Marine. He was stationed at Quantico until 2024 when his diagnosis forced him to step back. But even then, his determination never wavered.
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“Faced with DSRCT, Cullen made only one choice — to fight,” his father shared. “For over two years, he battled with hope and strength, refusing to let fear or pain define him.”
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Joe extended heartfelt gratitude to the medical professionals at Johns Hopkins Medicine, the U.S. Marines, the Naval Academy, and the many friends, mentors, and family members who stood by them throughout the journey.
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Cullen was not only a warrior but also a deeply loved son, brother, and friend. In an earlier post from August 2023, Joe had opened up about the family’s struggles following Cullen’s diagnosis, marking the beginning of a fight that brought both hardship and hope. In December 2022, they learned the diagnosis was DSRCT. In one especially trying moment, Cullen underwent a 15-hour surgery to remove tumors from his abdomen and right kidney — an effort that marked a breakthrough in his treatment and became a source of renewed strength for the family.
Despite the grueling battle, Cullen’s spirit endured. He celebrated milestones, such as attending the BEYA Stars and Stripes Dinner in early 2024, where he met distinguished military leaders, including General James Glynn. He also remained close to his family, including celebrating his brother Liam’s departure for college — a joyful moment captured in family photos full of smiles and colorful balloons.
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Beyond being a beloved son, Cullen was part of a family that has long served the public. Joe Crowley, born in 1962 in New York City, served in the New York State Assembly before his election to Congress, where he served from 1999 to 2019.
As chair of the House Democratic Caucus in his final years, he was known for his leadership and commitment to public service. He now works in the private sector, advising on national policy matters.
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Through all these public and private chapters, Cullen stood as a shining light — grounded, optimistic, and relentlessly committed to his values. His dream to serve his nation wasn’t just about wearing a uniform; it was a reflection of who he was at heart — someone who stood up for others, who loved deeply, and who lived fully, even in the most difficult of times.
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Though Cullen’s life ended far too soon, the legacy he leaves behind is one of enduring inspiration. His courage in adversity, his warmth toward others, and his commitment to serving something greater than himself will never be forgotten. In every life he touched, he planted seeds of strength, hope, and love — and those will continue to grow, long after the farewell.