Funeral held for Jim Crowley, former Chicago police officer paralyzed in 1987 crash

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Fellow officers, family and community members gathered Wednesday for the funeral of Chicago Police Officer Jim Crowley, who was seriously hurt in a devastating car crash in 1987.

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The ceremony was held 37 years to the day after the crash, where Crowley suffered a catastrophic injury on the job.

Officer Crowley was 59 years old.

Officer Crowley was paralyzed when a drunk driver slammed into a squad car he was in on September 4, 1987, killing Officer William Malcom Morrison, Jr. and injuring three other officers. Crowley was just 22 at the time of the crash and new on the force.

Crowley was left with catastrophic injuries and died from those injuries two weeks ago.

"Jim truly lived with zeal, for God, for life and learning, and I attribute Jim's ability to face the challenges he encountered with honor and courage to his four years at Mount Carmel," Crowley's sister, Beth Carter, said.

Carter, who was only 21 when she assumed responsibility for her brother's care, says it was difficult initially.

"The lack of concern for Jim's well being that was conveyed through the city's inaction fueled my resolve to never ever accept anything less than what was required for Jim to live the very best life he could," Carter said.

She was not the only one critical of the city's response to Crowley's needs after the accident all those years ago.

"Our department really fumbled the ball," retired CPD Detective Patrick Madden said. "We really had no support. It was just guys like us going down to see Jim."

Officers carry in the body of former CPD Officer James Crowley for his funeral at St. Christina Church in Chicago.

"That's why we are here," CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling said. "Regardless of what happened 37 years ago, we are here today to show support for the family, to show support for the sacrifices Officer Crowley made."

A procession was held Wednesday from the funeral home to St. Christina Church for a funeral Mass service, where Crowley was remembered for his outlook amid his challenges.

"I wish looking back we did and better job then, but can only look forward, and no other family will go through what the Crowley family went through," Alderman Matt O'Shea said. "Jim never lost his positive outlook on life. He never lost his sense of humor. He didn't say woe is me."

Alderman O'Shea asked South Side residents to line the street as the motorcade traveled to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery on 111th Street, where he was laid to rest.

"Several of our local schools will have their student body out in front," Alderman O'Shea said. "It's important that the children show their respect."

Alderman O'Shea said Crowley grew up on the South Side, graduated from Mt. Carmel, and always wanted to be a police officer.

"Jim was the youngest and smartest young man in our class, and he would have excelled in any field that he pursued," retired CPD Sgt. Thomas Toner said.

Alderman O'Shea also said said we must never forget those who put their lives on the line for this community.

"Loved Jim Crowley, kid Crowley to us, and we want to thank his sister for doing a great job all those years trying to be his guardian, and we'll miss him forever," retired Sgt. David Berglind said.

Crowley's sister credits the Police Memorial Foundation with helping them through the toughest times. The Chicago Police Department has changed its protocols over the years, now assigning personnel and offering services to injured officers and the families of fallen officers.

READ MORE | Former CPD officer paralyzed in 1987 on-duty crash welcomed home with special roll call