Joan A. Sullivan

Joan Aliene Sullivan, a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on October 31, 2024, in Sun City, Arizona. Born on April 29, 1935, in Denver, Colorado, to Ted Cliffard Stiff and Thelma Hutchinson, Joan's life was a beautiful tapestry of love, dedication, and joy.

Growing up in the small town of Arvada, Colorado, Joan married her high school sweetheart, Ed, and together they shared an incredible 65 years of marriage until his passing in 2020. Their partnership created a loving home for their two sons, Terry and Tim, filled with laughter and cherished memories.

Joan began her career as a technical writer for Douglas Aircraft in Long Beach, California. During this time, she furthered her education, embodying her lifelong love of learning. After Ed completed his military service, they returned to Colorado, where Joan devoted herself to raising their family and ensuring her sons had a strong foundation for their futures.

When she was ready to re-enter the workforce, Joan joined Coors Brewing Company as the manager of the Guest Relations Department, overseeing more than 100 employees. While she wasn’t particularly fond of beer, she embraced the company’s culture, even enjoying a small glass each day in hopes of gaining a bit of weight!

Joan took significant steps to enhance the Coors Visitors Center, including developing and managing its gift shop. This experience would later play a vital role in her new life at Royal Oaks Community. After 23 fulfilling years at Coors, the Sullivans moved to Sun City, where Joan found great joy in applying for the role of gift shop buyer at Royal Oaks—a position that fit her perfectly.

When the employee auction coordinator retired, Joan eagerly stepped in to manage the event, working alongside fellow residents and keeping the spirit of community alive. The camaraderie she observed between the residents and staff deeply resonated with her, and it didn’t take long for Joan and Ed to decide to make Royal Oaks their permanent home.

Outside of work, Joan's vibrant spirit shone through in her many passions. She loved dancing with the Sun City Poms, taking walks, visiting with friends, and traveling. Cruising and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Joan’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and an unwavering commitment to her family and community. She will be missed dearly, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Joan is preceded in death by her parents, Ted Cliffard Stiff and Thelma Hutchinson. She is survived by her sister Joyce Bradbury of Arvada, brother Bob Stiff of Kearney, two devoted sons, Terry Sullivan of Arvada, Colorado and Tim (Jamie) Sullivan of Surprise, Arizona and her beloved grandchildren, Kellie (Jay) Robins, Amanda (Mike) Pfeifer, Ashley (Christian) Wallis, and McKenzie Sullivan and eight great grandchildren.