Billy Frank Sullivan

Billy Frank Sullivan, a man of unwavering dedication, indomitable spirit, and a passion for service, passed away on September 29, 2023, after a valiant four-year battle with cancer. He was born on April 16, 1948, in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to Joseph Franklin Sullivan, Jr., and Dulcie Ann Pitchford Sullivan. Bill was a man who dedicated his life to serving God and God's family as well as demonstrating his profound love for his family.

Bill's journey began in Heavener, Oklahoma, where he spent his formative years. In 1966, he graduated as the valedictorian of his high school class, a distinction that foreshadowed the remarkable academic and professional achievements that would define his life. His fascination with chemistry emerged early, as he claimed first place at both the Heavener High School Science Fair and the Southeastern Oklahoma Regional High School Science Fair while still in the 8th grade. His brilliance even led him to be a finalist at the prestigious 1966 International Science Fair held in Dallas, Texas.

Continuing his pursuit of knowledge, Bill became a Spiva scholar at Kansas State College of Pittsburgh, earning a bachelor's degree in chemistry in 1970. His academic journey then led him to the University of Illinois as a Dow fellow, where he developed a love for piloting aircraft. In 1972, he graduated from U of I with a master's degree in chemistry and an Air Force commission as a second lieutenant. One of the proudest moments of his life came in August 1973 when he received his Silver Wings as an Air Force pilot, having successfully flown the supersonic T-38A and excelled in check rides for contact, formation flying, and instrument qualifications.

In 1975, Bill married the love of his life, Jeanne Faye Varney, marking the beginning of a beautiful and enduring partnership of nearly 48 years. During his illustrious Air Force career, Bill achieved several remarkable feats, including leading American tanker forces during joint war games in Teheran, Iran, in 1977. In Ohio, he spearheaded the development of the prototype jet engine that would later power Air Force F-16's and Navy F-14 Super Tomcat's, completing the project in record time. Bill's exceptional career continued, becoming the first combat-ready KC-135R instructor pilot and flight commander, and later, rising to the position of chief of the stealth weapons development division at Strategic Air Command headquarters, overseeing highly classified programs.

Bill completed his Air Force career in 1995, working on the development of a self-guiding bomb with exceptional accuracy, reporting directly to the Pentagon. For his outstanding contributions, Bill was awarded four Meritorious Service Medals.

After retiring from the Air Force, Bill transitioned to a successful career at Computer Science Corporation, rapidly advancing from a program control specialist to becoming the department executive director for Global Outsourcing Transitions in just six years.

Throughout his life, Bill remained a devoted servant of Jesus Christ. He found great joy in teaching and served as a dedicated elder for the North Boulevard Church of Christ for nearly two decades. In 2022, he joined the University Church of Christ, where he rekindled cherished friendships.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Bill was a life member of the Order of Daedalians and Omicron Delta Kappa. He also served as the president of the Open Hearts Helping Hands charity, dedicated to providing food for starving Christians in Zimbabwe, Africa.

Billy Frank Sullivan was proceeded in death by his parents and his brother, Joe Richard Sullivan, Sr., as well as his sisters-in-law Betsy McGuirt and Lee Mazzullo.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Jeanne, and their three sons: Joseph, Jeremy (wife Ashley), and Joshua (wife Erin). He leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and unwavering dedication carried forward by his six cherished grandchildren: Simone, Karinne, Elora, Josiah, Lydia Dulcie, and Corban.

He is also survived by his nephews Richard (wife Gloria) Sullivan, Daniel (wife Autumn) McGuirt, Jonathan (wife Malerie) McGuirt, and Henry Mazzullo and his nieces Lorie (husband Kevin) Williams, Brenda Lopiccolo, Courtney Varney, and Jamie Mazzullo. He is also survived by dear cousins Helen Deffenbaugh, Sue Finch, and Billy Wayne (wife Lynne) Pitchford, as well as brothers-in-law Larry McGuirt and Chris Mazzullo.

Bill Sullivan's life was a remarkable journey, marked by dedication, achievement, and love. He often remarked that he was the most blessed man he knew, and those who had the privilege of knowing him were equally blessed. His memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those he touched, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Billy Frank Sullivan will be held on October 7, 2023 at University Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Open Hearts Helping Hands charity, continuing Bill's commitment to helping those in need.

Rest in peace, Bill. Your spirit soars as high as the planes you once piloted, and your legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you.

A visitation for Billy will be held Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at University Church of Christ, 14314 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 33613, followed by a funeral service from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sylvanabbey.com for the Sullivan family.