Marilyn Theresa (Mehigan) Sullivan passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, January 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Marilyn was born on December 5, 1928, in Somerville, MA, to Garrett and Catherine (Molloy) Mehigan.
Before settling in Tewksbury, MA, where she and her late husband, Russell F. Sullivan Sr., created a loving family home for more than 65 years, Marilyn and Russell lived in Somerville, where they began raising their family.
Marilyn is survived by her children: Joanne Smith and her late husband, Terry Smith, of Pepperell, MA; Karen Maciejewski and her partner, Jon “Bucky” Dolence, of Charlestown, MA and Walpole, NH; Doreen Dixon and her late husband, Dave Dixon, of Lowell, MA; Kerry Carlini and her husband, Steven Carlini, of Hampton, NH and Boynton Beach, FL; and Russell Sullivan Jr. and his wife, Stacie Ouellette Sullivan, of Bristol, RI. Her legacy lives on through her 17 grandchildren and their spouses, 26 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom will forever cherish her love and presence.
Marilyn is also survived by her loving sister, Sr. Joan Mehigan, of Ipswich, MA. She was predeceased by her brother, Charles, and his wife, Ann Riley. Marilyn is lovingly remembered by many nieces and nephews.
After graduating from high school, Marilyn attended a two-year secretarial business school and put her training to use working as a secretary for a local business, both before raising her children and again after they were grown. In retirement, Marilyn gave back to her community by volunteering in the oncology department at Lowell General Hospital. A three-time cancer survivor herself, she was a friendly face and a compassionate, supportive presence for those undergoing treatment. Marilyn was also a longtime parishioner of St. William Church in Tewksbury, MA, where she found community and comfort.
Marilyn loved a good party. Whether it was a Friday night dance or a gathering with friends and family, you could count on Marilyn being on the dance floor and often the last to leave. She was known for her outgoing spirit and her ability to talk to anyone. Her husband would often joke about how long it took her to grocery shop, as she would stop and talk to everyone she knew. Over the years, she and Russell built many lasting friendships, often traveling, dining, bowling, and enjoying shows at the North Shore Music Theater together. Her social calendar was always full. After retiring, she and her husband spent their winters in Florida enjoying the sun, walking the beach and spending time with family and friends.
Marilyn was a fierce competitor; she loved playing and especially winning card games with family and friends. Above all else, she cherished her time with her family, where countless treasured memories were made.
Marilyn’s strength, endearing stubbornness, outgoing spirit and deep love for life will be remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Calling hours are on Sunday, January 18, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Farmer & Dee Funeral Home, 16 Lee St., Tewksbury, MA, immediately followed by a prayer service and reflection hour at 2:00pm, where friends and family are welcome to share a favorite memory.