The tragic deaths of Campbelltown residents Maureen Crosland and Lee Casuscelli have rocked their immediate families – and touched a huge part of our local community.
Both women were stalwarts of our community in their own different ways, as well as two beautiful souls.
Tributes have continued to flow around Campbelltown and beyond for Mrs Crosland, 84, and Mrs Casuscelli, 60, who died at the scene after an unlicensed driver behind the wheel of a stolen car ploughed into their vehicle at Camden South last Saturday.
Campbelltown Collegians Rugby League Football Club posted this: “We would like to send our deepest love and condolences to one of our senior boys who tragically lost his beautiful mum on Saturday in a horrific accident. All your Collies family is with you Adrian.
“Rest in Peace Mrs Lee Casuscelli.’’
In her emotional tribute, Sam Oakes, the founder of The Formal Project, described Mrs Casuscelli as “my biggest mentor, the one who saved my life, the one who held me when no one else would, the one who saw through my anger, the one who loved me regardless of my past’’.
“I changed because of this woman, she taught me to see the world differently, to love like I had never been loved. She healed pieces of me I never thought I would put back together.
“My heart is in a million pieces right now,’’ Ms Oakes said in her social media post.
By all accounts, Lee Casuscelli was a remarkable teacher and worked at Aspect – Autism Spectrum Australia, who posted this tribute:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former colleague, Lee Casuscelli.
“Lee was a respected and much-loved leader who made a significant contribution across Positive Partnerships and Aspect Education.
“She served as principal of Aspect Western Sydney School and Aspect Macarthur School, and later as part of our education leadership team.
“She led with integrity, expertise and genuine care. Lee was dedicated to creating school communities where autistic students could thrive and where staff felt supported and confident in their roles.
“She mentored generously and strengthened the people around her, leaving a lasting impact on our schools and culture.
“For those who had the privilege of working alongside her, this loss is profound. She will be remembered with great respect and warmth across the Aspect community.
“Our thoughts are with Lee’s family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time.’’
The Croslands, who live in Bradbury, are well known and respected Campbelltown Catholic family, part of the parish at St John the Baptist Church and St Thomas More.
Maureen’s death is the latest tragedy to befall this family.
Phil Crosland, the husband of Maureen, has already attended the funeral of two of his children, Troy, a well known and talented cricketer at the Campbelltown Ghosts Cricket Club, and daughter Natalie.
Now Mr Crosland, a life member of Bradbury Cricket Club, will be attending the funeral of his wife, Maureen.
“Bradbury Cricket Club is deeply saddened to hear the news of the death of Maureen Crosland, wife of life member Phillip Crosland, in a tragic car crash at Camden over the weekend,’’ the club posted.
“Maureen supported the club as a long time scorer and manager of junior teams.
“Our thoughts are with the Crosland family during this devasting time.’’
Another member of the club added:
“Over the years of being a life member of our club Maureen and I spoke many times.
“Maureen was truly an amazing lady.
“My prayers and thoughts to Phill and family – may they be guided and given strength during this time of sorrow.’’