Matthew James Sullivan

Matthew James Sullivan, of Falls Church, Virginia, passed away on May 12, 2024, at the age of 39. Better known by his call sign ‘Quake,’ Matt’s dedication and passion for his service to the United States inspired all who met him. He began his military journey with the 17th Training Wing and 1st Fighter Wing's 27th Fighter Squadron (F-22). As a U.S. Air Force Intelligence officer, Matt served at various prestigious institutions, including the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, National Security Agency, and Air Force Intelligence Agency. He also undertook deployments to U.S. Central Command and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. He earned a Bronze Star for his valor in Operation Enduring Freedom. Matt was a passionate sports enthusiast. He was particularly devoted to his Tigers as a proud Chi Psi graduate of Clemson University. Matt was a voracious reader as well as a generous conversationalist, mentor, and teacher. Many who called Matt a friend will cherish books on their shelves, given to them as both signs of friendship and investments in future intellectual engagements. Matt was a big thinker - Siri's voice-to-text function could never keep up with his thoughts, but that was her loss. A skilled culinarian, Matt and Amanda loved to host parties and dinners, rich in fine food, drink, and robust conversation. He grilled, smoked, fried, and sautéed with the best of them. Many will remember sharing delicious meals on fall days with Matt and Amanda, while watching as many football games as possible on multiple screens in their home. He is survived by his loving wife, Amanda, and two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels – Bailey and Moose, his parents, Judith and Richard, of Marshfield Hills, Massachusetts, and his brother, Patrick, also of Marshfield Hills, Massachusetts. Matt's absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him. A visitation for Matt will be held Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Murphy Funeral Home, 1102 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 1102 West Broad Street, Falls Church, VA 22046. A graveside service will occur Wednesday, May 22, 2024, from 1:30 PM to 2:00 PM, Quantico National Cemetery, 18424 Joplin Rd, Triangle, VA 22172 In lieu of flowers, Matt would like donations made to Chi Psi Educational Trust (EIN 03-0386312) and Disabled American Veterans (EIN 31-0263158), PO Box 14301, Cincinnati, OH 45250.