Strength, integrity, and showing up for the people you love—no matter what—are lessons often taught not through words, but through a lifetime of example. For the Crossley family, those lessons came from a father who has always been a steady presence: dependable, generous, and quietly devoted to everyone around him.
For as long as anyone can remember, he has been the pillar others leaned on, offering unwavering support through every high and low without ever asking for anything in return. At 75 years old, Bill remains chivalrous to his core—a provider, a protector, and genuinely one of the coolest people you could hope to know.
Bill’s spirit showed itself early on. When his daughters were young, he introduced them to a love of music and adventure, even taking them to their first music festival—where the Grateful Dead played with the original Jerry Garcia. He fostered a deep appreciation for simple, meaningful experiences: camping under the stars, watching meteor showers, skiing together, and spending time outdoors. These moments became the foundation of a life shaped by curiosity, connection, and joy.
Through example, Bill taught the values that matter most: how to work hard, advocate for change when it’s needed, and persevere with faith. He passed down practical life skills—building things, changing tires, fixing boats, solving problems instead of walking away from them—long before anyone realized how deeply those lessons would shape the future. Time spent working alongside him in his carpentry business became some of the most meaningful memories of all, built on honest work, patience, and trust.
Today, Bill is remarkably facing the hardest battle of his life. He has been diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer that has metastasized to his liver. He is currently undergoing six rounds of chemotherapy—an exhausting journey, both physically and emotionally. In addition to standard treatment, supportive therapies such as high-dose vitamin C may help his body cope, but these options come with significant out-of-pocket costs.
Nonetheless, Bill is facing this journey with remarkable courage, steady strength, and unwavering determination. He is surrounded by a dedicated care team that includes his oncologist, a naturopathic doctor, nutritionist and specialists at Dana-Farber, all working together to support his healing. Alongside chemotherapy, he is following new, carefully designed nutrition plans and supportive therapies aimed at strengthening his body and aiding recovery. By staying focused, listening to his medical team, and allowing himself the rest and care he needs, Bill continues to meet each day with the same quiet resilience and resolve that have defined his life.
Despite a lifetime of hard work and providing for others, the financial strain of housing, daily living expenses, and mounting medical bills has become overwhelming. Asking for help has never come easily—he has always been the one offering it—but this is a moment when support is deeply needed.
This is where we are asking for your help. This fundraiser exists to ease that burden so he can focus on healing and maintaining quality of life during treatment. Contributions will help cover housing, medical expenses, and supportive care. Any amount makes a meaningful difference, and sharing this page is just as valuable.
Thank you for taking the time to read this story and for holding space for a family during an incredibly difficult chapter. The love, generosity, prayers, and support shown here mean more than words can ever express.
Organizer and beneficiary
William Crossley
Beneficiary





