John grew up in Somerset, graduated from Somerset High School in 1989 and went on to Stonehill College where he earned his Bachelor's Degree in Education in 1993. His intelligence and creativity made him a talented writer and artist. Music brought him joy and was an important presence in his life, especially when shared with friends. He taught himself to play guitar and enjoyed road trips to see his favorite bands, especially the Grateful Dead. John was full of awe and wonder at the world around him. He saw and felt the beauty of nature. He enjoyed hiking in the woods and being at the ocean. His constant curiosity kept him asking important questions and contemplating the human experience, the cosmos, and beyond. He was a loving, generous, thoughtful, gentle soul who had a "twinkle in his eye" sense of humor. He loved his Irish heritage and learning about the lives of his ancestors. John was a man of great courage and unparalleled kindness who dedicated his life's work to writing about the ways the world could heal through seeking truth and harmony. Above all, he treasured moments shared with his family.
In addition to his parents, John is survived by his loving family, including his sisters Tara Sullivan of Somerset, and Kathryn Grishey and her husband, Christopher, of Berkley; his niece, Hannah Dorothy Grishey, nephew, Cooper Sullivan Grishey; And many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear lifelong friends who loved him beyond measure and will miss him deeply.
John Patrick - A Beautiful Mind..........A Beautiful Soul
John’s visitation will be held Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the Waring-Sullivan Home at Rose E. Sullivan, 866 County Street, Somerset. Relatives and friends are invited. Burial will be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in John’s name may be made to the NAMI Bristol County MA, PO Box 9096, Fall River, MA 02720 or the Schizophrenia & Psychosis Action Alliance, 2308 Mount Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301.
