WORCESTER-John Rogers “Sully” Sullivan, 90, of Worcester died peacefully in his sleep Wednesday December 22nd in the Rose Monahan Hospice Home. He leaves his wife of 64 years, Henrietta (Gauvin) Sullivan, three children, Kevin Sullivan and his wife, Martha, Dennis Sullivan and his wife, Jeanette and Michaela Sullivan and her husband, Tony Nayebi; nine grandchildren, Peter, Maura, Steven, Erin, Rory, Sarah, Michael, Daniel and Jaime; eight great grandchildren, Joseph, Matthew, Rebecca, Sydney, Ryan, Elizabeth, Reese and John; several nieces and nephews including Jack McNamee; and a good friend, who was like a son to him, Jimmy McTigue who visited him weekly for over 20 years. He was predeceased by his two brothers, James and Daniel; and his two sisters, Kathryn and Mary.
John was born in Worcester, the son of John and Margaret (Marrinan) Sullivan. At the age of 16, after the death of his father, Sully joined the Civil Conservation Corp and earned a small stipend which he sent home to his mother each month. He served in the Navy during WWII and was proud to be a veteran. Sully was a senior building custodian for the Worcester Public Schools for over 40 years, retiring several years ago. He worked for many years at Mill Swan School where the courtyard was dedicated to him upon his retirement. He was proud to raise the flag one last time in the presence of Worcester’s mayor, school committee members and several former principals and teachers. He was a member of Our Lady of the Angels Church, the Vernon Hill Post 430, The Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Emerald Club, the Retired State, County, Municipal employees association. Sully received the key to the City of Worcester in 1993 and 1996 for his outstanding and dedicated service to the city.
Sully enjoyed antiques and took great pride in the old trunks he refinished in his leisure time. He shared these treasures with his family and friends. He was true to his Irish heritage and was often seen wearing one of his “shamrock” shirts. John was a devoted family man. He was loved and cherished by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He will surely be missed and will remain forever in their hearts.
The funeral has been rescheduled, it is now Tuesday, December 27TH from O’CONNOR BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, 592 Park Avenue with a Mass at 11:00 AM in Our Lady of the Angels Church, 1222 Main Street. Burial will be in Saint John’s Cemetery. Calling hours are Sunday, December 26th from 2:00 until 5:00 PM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to VNA Care Network & Hospice, 120 Thomas Street, Worcester, MA 01608.