Published April 2, 2021
WOBURN — Francis J. “Joe” Sullivan of Woburn, formerly of Melrose and East Boston, passed away after battling Alzheimer’s Disease on March 27, 2021 with his family by his side. He was 84 years old.
Born on November 3, 1936 in Winthrop, Joe was one of four children of the late Francis C. and Mary (Cashman) Sullivan. He was raised in East Boston and attended Boston College High School and Boston College. After being honorably discharged from the Air National Guard, Joe spent his career as a teacher and administrator in the Boston Public Schools. Upon his retirement in 1993, Joe became involved in Melrose politics by volunteering for many campaigns.
His family will remember his unconditional love and support. He was devoted to the Red Sox and Celtics. He loved annual family vacations to Cape Cod and weekends at Singing Beach. He was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling with his wife, but what he cherished most was spending time with family, especially his three grandchildren.
Joe is survived by his devoted wife of 53 years, Esther (Donovan) Sullivan. Loving father of Susan Sullivan of Melrose; Richard Sullivan and his wife Judi of Woburn; and Paul Sullivan and his wife Michelle Ocampo of Brooklyn, New York. He was the proud grandfather of Emily and Ainsley Sullivan of Woburn and Jules Sullivan of Brooklyn, New York. Cherished brother of Kathryn Murphy of Saugus; John Sullivan of Ft. Myers, Florida; and the late Richard Sullivan. Brother-in-law to John “Jack” Donovan and his wife Claire of Poinciana, Florida. He will be missed by Kelley, his loving dog. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends are invited to a visiting hour at Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Wednesday, April 7 from 9:15-10:15 a.m., before leaving in procession for his funeral mass celebrated at Most Blessed Sacrament Church, 1155 Main St., Wakefield at 11a.m. All attendees are required to wear masks, maintain social distancing, and pay their respects and exit the funeral home promptly to allow other guests to enter. A limited number of guests will be allowed in the building at one time. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Joe’s memory to the American Alzheimer’s Association, PO Box 96011, Washington DC, 20090-6011 or act.alz.org/donate.
For online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
