James Sullivan

The Sullivan’s, Sam and Julia were pioneers in Fort Lauderdale having established roots since 1911 from Crouse, North Carolina. Sully was a third generation Floridian born in Fort Lauderdale on April 23, 1936 to the late Keith and Elzalene Johnston Sullivan whose father was one of the first doctors in Fort Lauderdale at Broward general. James was delivered by his grandfather, Doctor Johnston. Jimmy’s love for the sunshine state was driven from the legacy the Sullivan’s established which led him back home post graduation from the University of Oklahoma. 

Jimmy was united in marriage on March 13, 1972 to Evelyn Semiklose Sullivan where they shared a beautiful and adventurous life with one another for 52 years. He was a member of the Fort Lauderdale Yacht Club, Sapphire Valley Country Club, Ocean Reef Club, Poinsett Club, All Saints Episcopal Church and numerous civic and professional associations. 

His career as a financial advisor and stockbroker spanned greater than five decades, with more than 45 years as an advisor with Oppenheimer & Co. During his lifetime, his many pastimes and interests included golfing, tennis, swimming, horse racing, yachting and competitive tournament fishing. His crowning achievement was winning the World Sailfish Championship in 2011 on the Barefoot. 

To everyone who had the privilege of knowing Jimmy knew how much joy for life he had. He was always a humble, fair, extremely hard working gentleman that was respected within the community and will be dearly missed. 

Surviving Jim are his spouse Evelyn, son Michael and his spouse Tamara Sullivan, daughter Susan Ely and her spouse Victor. Grandchildren; Kevin Sullivan (spouse Kaleigh), Kelly Sullivan O’Connor (spouse Shane), Stephanie Ely and Julie Ely Biedestedt (spouse Blake) and his great grandchildren; Callahan Sullivan, Sloane Sullivan and Adalee Biedestedt.