William Paul Crosby

Professional Tulsa musician William "Bill" Paul Crosby, 86, passed away in the early morning hours on April 23, 2023 at Montereau Retirement Community surrounded by his loved ones. Bill was well known in the Tulsa jazz community as an exceptional string bass player. Bill was born on May 6, 1936, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Paul Crosby and Mary (Hill) Crosby. Bill's love for music began in grade school and continued through his graduation from Central High School in 1955. He played clarinet and saxophone, and he led the Central High Days Band in his senior year. After graduation, he joined the Navy and was accepted into the Naval School of Music where he played clarinet and saxophone. While in the Navy, Bill was a part of a band that toured many countries in Asia, Europe, and other parts of the world. After an honorable discharge from the Navy, Bill returned to Tulsa where he pursued a career playing the upright bass. On May 4, 1961, Bill was blessed with his only son William "Blair" Crosby, fulfilling his deepest desire to become a father. Bill loved children. As he continued to pursue his musical career, he also became a professional painter and worked for the Tulsa County Parks Department for over 20 years. In 1982, Bill married singer Pamela VanDyke. After marrying, Bill and Pam loved performing together and received many awards and recognitions for their musical talents. Bill continued to play bass right up until he fell ill in February of 2023. Bill is survived by his loving wife, Pamela Crosby; Son, William Blair Crosby and wife Tammy; Stepchildren, Keil Cadieux and husband Chris, Lisa McCool and husband Larry, Robert VanDyke and wife Ty; Nieces, Kathryn Herron, Kari Manley and husband Jim; Nephew, Jason Herron and wife Jara; Grandchildren, Peyton, Courtney, Piper, Tucker, Isaac, and Avy and many great-grandchildren. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Paul Crosby; Sister, Judy Herron; Stepson, Isaac Parkey IV; and Granddaughter, Catherine Burdette. Public visitation will be held at Moore Funeral Homes, Southlawn Chapel on Thursday, May 4th, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m; with the family present and receiving visitors from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at Asbury Church Family Room (North Entrance) on Friday, May 5, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. Asbury is located at 6767 S Mingo Rd, Tulsa, OK 74133. A private military burial service will take place preceding the funeral service. A special Jazz Jam honoring Bill will take place on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, at Baxter's Interurban Grill from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Moore's Southlawn 918-663-2233 share memories at www.moorefuneral.com

William Paul Crosby

May 6, 1936 - April 23, 2023