Pauline Julia Sullivan

1921-2011

Pauline J. Sullivan (Sierodzinski), 90, formerly of Springfield, MA, passed peacefully in Raleigh, NC on Dec 13, 2011. Pauline was born in Poland, immigrated through Ellis Island to Springfield with her family when she was a child, eventually graduating from Commerce High School. She was a founding member of St. Joseph’s Polish National Catholic Church (formerly of Prospect St.) and was an active member, participating in many church and social functions. During WWII, she worked at Van Norman Machine Co. where she met her husband Francis and was married in 1943. After raising her family, she worked for Mass Mutual and eventually for the City of Springfield as bookkeeper for the Golden Age Club. She retired in 1988 and relocated to California, returning to Springfield in 2000. In 2009, she and Francis moved to Raleigh.

She was an accomplished homemaker, gardener, seamstress and carpenter, building the family home in 16 Acres with her husband in 1945. She loved to cook and was known for many dishes. She enjoyed the outdoors; landscaping their homes in Springfield and CA, planting a yearly vegetable garden and enjoying daily neighborhood walks later in life. Flowers were her passion, becoming an accomplished grower of orchids. Her family and the many lifelong friends that made her life so rich will remember her for her love of life.

She is survived by her sons; Thomas Sullivan of Rangeley, ME, and Barry Sullivan of Raleigh, NC; grandson, Todd Sullivan of Poland, ME along with many friends and family. She was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years Francis, son Brian, brother Stanley Sierodzinski and sister Bertha Jones.

Graveside service and burial will be at Oakwood Cemetery in Raleigh on Friday, Dec 16, at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Nutrition Program, Greater Springfield Senior Services, 66 Industry Ave., Springfield, MA 01104. Visitation will be held at Barry’s home in Raleigh, 816 Barbara Dr, 27606 on Friday evening from 6 to 9 pm.