Kyria Wilcox Cromwell

We have learnt, with great regret, of the death of Leicester alumna Kyria Wilcox Cromwell. Kyria graduated from the University of Leicester with a Social Sciences BA in 1970.

Kyria was a resident of Clare Hall whilst completing her undergraduate degree at Leicester in the late 1960s. An ardent feminist, she attended sit-ins on campus and in London to protest against apartheid, the Vietnam War and racial discrimination. She enjoyed Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan when they toured locally.

Shortly before sitting her final exams, Kyria gave birth to her son Robert Christopher (pictured). Tragically, Robert died from cot death before he could reach his first birthday. It is a source of great comfort for those who knew Kyria that she is now granted eternal rest with him.

After graduating, Kyria obtained a social work qualification and set to work in adoption and fostering in Lewisham. She later progressed to become a team manager for Brixton and Lambeth social services. Pursuit of a career working with children, and especially in enforcing child protection, brought Kyria profound satisfaction.

Kyria was eventually promoted to become the social work team leader for childcare in Bromley, before moving to Croydon to work for a local welfare charity in 1989. Kyria retired early in 1996.

Kyria's legacy of kindness, responsiveness and genuine passion for the children in her care have been mentioned untold times by her colleagues. Her death in January 2024 brought to an end a whirlwind of a passionate and stormy life that is frankly irreplaceable.

Words by Sarah Cromwell-Price.