John J. Sullivan

John J. (“JJ”) Sullivan of Congers, New York, entered into rest on September 13, 2017 surrounded by his adoring family and with his wife Eileen, the love of his life, at his side. He left this world a brighter, more beautiful place, and all who had the good luck to cross paths with him are better for knowing him.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, John Joseph Sullivan was the son of Alice Sullivan (Duggan) and John J. Sullivan. In 1961, he moved with his family to Hull, Massachusetts, where he was an outstanding athlete, lettering in football and track. In 1963, he graduated from Hull High School.

John was a true patriot and followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the United States Navy when he was nineteen. He believed firmly in the American Dream and lived his life accordingly. Like so many others of his generation, John served his country with distinction during the Vietnam War. John was an Air Controlman, Third Class Petty Officer aboard the USS Essex from 1964-1966. With his customary modesty, he rarely spoke of the War or his role in it.

Home from the serving his country, John was first in line to take the civil service exam. He had a desire to continue his service stateside, as a New York City Police Officer. His first stop was the 41st Precinct in the Bronx where he began a distinguished and “colorful” career full of awards and commendations, too many to list. John continued to serve the Bronx Borough in the 43rd Precinct, Bronx Task Force (BXTF) Narcotics Division, Yankee Stadium Detail, 40th Precinct and 44th Precinct. In 1987, John rose to the rank of Sergeant rounding out his career in the 50th Precinct.

After retiring from the NYPD in 1988 and thanks in part to the many friendships John formed during his career as a police officer, he swiftly transitioned to his second career in corporate security. At Yellow Freight, John continued to work with several friends from his days with the NYPD and created new ones too. Eight years of security work at Yellow Freight led John to executive security at Revlon and Hertz.

John was always guided by his big heart and an unwavering desire to serve and give back. He was an active member of many organizations which provided him with an opportunity to serve, help others and of course enjoy the company of his many friends. John was a member of a number police organizations including the NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association and the New York City Superior Officers Association. John was a Fourth Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus, Congers; Lifetime Member of the VFW Post 126 in West Nyack; the Haverstraw Elks Lodge 877; and the American Legion Post 1682, New City.

John was a voracious reader, gobbling up presidential biographies, military history and anything to do with his beloved NYPD. He also enjoyed working with his hands, especially when it involved helping or being with friends. Whether it was volunteering to cook the annual St. Patrick’s Day boiled dinner at the K of C or helping a friend or family member with a home project.

John took great joy in spending time with his friends, especially the crew at the Knights of Columbus in Congers. “JJ” had a great sense of humor. He loved a bawdy joke or a silly song and he took great pleasure in ribbing everyone, nobody got a pass.

His most precious time was spent with his beloved Eileen. This past February, he had the good fortune of celebrating 41 years marriage to his “Boo-Boo”. Anyone who ever saw them together knew that she was, in fact, the one and only woman for him.

It is impossible to describe everything that John meant to his family, friends and brothers in blue. He was the first to lend a hand, congratulate or offer a word of encouragement, and he was always ready with a kind word and wide smile. He was a loyal friend, confidante to his grandchildren, and shining example for his children and their husbands and wives. He was adored by his five children and their spouses, and idolized by his eight grandchildren. John’s greatest joy and inspiration in his life was his family. His children and grandchildren were his pride and joy, and the love he shared with them illuminated the world around them.

In addition to the love of his life Eileen M. (Gowen) Sullivan, John is survived by his 5 children: Debra A. Gruttemeyer, her husband Christopher and their son Brandon of Cornwall, NY; John P. Sullivan, his wife Margaret and their children Kyla and Jack of Andover, MA; Diane Hynes, her husband Michael and their children Michael, Victoria and Matthew of Mooresville, N.C.; James M. Sullivan, Quincy Police Officer, Quincy, MA; and Sean F. Sullivan, his wife Katherine and their children Maggie and Andrew. He is also survived by loving nieces and nephews, and many devoted friends.

The family would like to especially thank the wonderful nursing staff at Nyack Hospital, who guided us along this difficult journey with love and compassion.

We will never be the same without him but we are blessed to have him part of us forever. Funeral procession from the Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 113 Lake Road East, Congers, Monday morning at 9:00, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Paul’s Church, Congers at 10:00. Relatives and friends invited. Calling hours Sunday 4-8. Interment Gethesame Cemetery, Congers. In lieu of flowers a memorial donation may be made to United Hospice of Rockland, 11 Stokum Lane, New City, NY 10956.

Arrangements under the direction of Michael J. Higgins Funeral Service, Congers, NY.