John "Jack" Stephen Sullivan

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, John “Jack” Stephen Sullivan of Sarasota, Florida. He left this world on March 4, 2025, just shy of his 81st birthday, after a brief illness. Jack was a man of remarkable intelligence, sharp wit, and profound insight, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born in Cleveland, OH, on April 25, 1944, and raised in Belmont, MA, Jack attended the University of Virginia (UVA) in Charlottesville, VA, where he earned his bachelor’s degree while playing baseball. He later obtained his M.S. in Public Administration from Florida International University. Jack then served six years of active duty as a security police officer and missile launch officer in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, attaining the rank of Captain. His military awards include the Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Jack was always a proud veteran and patriot, particularly after losing two uncles who served in World War II, and as the son of a World War II Navy veteran.

After his time in the Air Force, Jack embarked on a distinguished 30-year career as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During his service with the FBI, he worked as a Special Agent, Supervisor, and Legal Attaché at the American Embassy in Panama. Jack represented the FBI with U.S. military personnel and foreign law enforcement and executive officials in Panama, Costa Rica, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Belize. He received numerous letters of commendation from several FBI Directors, including recognition for his undercover work, as well as commendations from Presidents Richard Nixon and George H.W. Bush.

Throughout his lifetime, Jack had the great fortune to explore the world, both through his military service and personal life. He enjoyed cruising the Caribbean with family during vacations. However, his favorite destination was Aruba, where he always found peace and joy.

Jack dedicated his life to his country, family, and loved ones, always leading with wisdom, humor, keen attention to detail, and unwavering support. His magnetic personality, firm handshakes, charm, and wit will be missed by all who knew him. His fondness for Boston sports will live on through his children and grandchildren, especially when they remember him enjoying an icy cold Miller High Life, some cheese and crackers, mixed nuts, or his famous clam dip while cheering for the Patriots, Red Sox, or Bruins.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. Jack was the son of the late John S. B. Sullivan and Angela G. Sullivan of South Dennis, MA. He is survived by his beloved wife, Martha Ann Sullivan; his siblings, Angela Lynne Sullivan, Joseph Edward Sullivan, and Richard James Sullivan; his children from a previous marriage, John Patrick Sullivan, Timothy Scott Sullivan, James David Sullivan, and Joseph Daniel Sullivan; his daughter, Stephanie Lynne Lee; and his five grandchildren: Noah James Sullivan, Haisley Lynn Sullivan, Emma Mae Sullivan, Brooks Everett Lee, and Delaney Emerson Lee. Jack is also survived by four stepchildren: Emily Hartmann, Patrick Hartmann, Caroline Hartmann Lamoureux, and Nicholas Hartmann, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Visiting hours will be held on April 3, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Nickerson-Bourne Funeral Home, 40 MacArthur Blvd, Bourne, MA. Funeral service will be held on April 4, 2025, in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Massachusetts National Cemetery, Connery Ave, Bourne, MA at 11:30 a.m.

In remembrance of Jack Sullivan, the family kindly requests donations to the Gary Sinise Foundation (www.garysinisefoundation.org) and the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) in his honor. The family has chosen to support the Alzheimer’s Association due to the care his beloved wife, Martha Ann Sullivan, is currently receiving for Alzheimer’s disease.

Though he is no longer with us, his love and lessons will remain in our hearts forever. Rest in peace, Jack. You will be deeply missed.