Photo courtesy of Bedford Funeral Home - Bedford
Bedford, Massachusetts
Aug 25, 1955 – Mar 4, 2021 (Age 65)
Major Robert R. Sullivan, USAF Retired, age 65, of Stoneham and formerly of Bedford, died on March 4, 2021, following a lengthy illness.
“Sully” was born in Cambridge and was the son of the late Frederick and Rose “Ferne” Sullivan.
Raised in Belmont, he graduated from Belmont High School in 1973. Following the completion of high school, Sully enrolled in a collegiate ROTC program and earned his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Lowell Tech in 1977. He went on to gain a master’s in business administration through correspondence courses offered by the Aviation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
After achieving his life's calling to commission as an Air Force officer, he was selected to be a navigator for the KC-135 aerial refueling tanker aircraft. He took the offer for early retirement after 17 years of unwavering service but continued to support the Air Force mission as a civilian program manager at Hanscom AFB until the time of his passing.
Sully's success in life was not limited to his professional/career achievements. He applied his compassion, intelligence, and quick wit to all aspects of his life. He was an outstanding husband, loving and devoted father and stalwart friend to many who were fortunate enough to encounter him in the world.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary-Ann (Crosby) Sullivan, two children, Jaclyn Sullivan of Lawrence and Chris Sullivan and his wife Julie of Nashua, NH, his brother, Frederick Sullivan of East Lyme, CT and sister, Carole Cappello of Marlborough. Additionally, he leaves behind his grandson, Rowan Sullivan. He was predeceased by his sister, Kathleen DeGraffenreid.
Private graveside services took place at Shawsheen Cemetery in Bedford. A memorial event celebrating his life will take place in August.
Memorial contributions may be made to: Help Hope Live at https://helphopelive.org/donate/donate-to-help-hope-live/. Checks can be mailed to: Help Hope Live 2 Radnor Corporate Center, Suite 100, 100 Matsonford Road, Radnor, PA 19087
Read MoreSully was always a great person. Lots of fun, smart and a good person. It's been a long time since we've seen Sully (and Maryanne) but I'll always remember meeting him at Squadron Officer's School in Montgomery, Alabama and later working with him at Hanscom. His passing is a real loss.
Wycklliffe Furcron
January 27, 2022 | Clifton, VA | Friend
R.I.P.
Kevin Kneeland
April 13, 2021 | BILLERICA, MA | Classmate
The Hanscom family has lost a great person. Sully was a warm and funny friend who I was blessed to share many TDYs with. His wit, smile and intelligence are what I will remember. Rest easy Sully!
Terri Sullivan (nei Spain)
March 21, 2021 | Xenia, OH | Coworker
Although we lost touch over the years, I always remember Sully as a warm, funny guy with a big smile. I'm sure he is missed by his family and friends. Thinking of you all.
Leslie Tustin
March 20, 2021 | Carver, MA
Sully, you were a great friend and advisor to the very end. I will always cherish our impromptu hallway conversations. Please save a place at the poker table and a parking space for me with you wherever you are!
George “GP3” Peasant III
March 18, 2021 | Fairfax Station, VA | Friend
Sully was always a bright spot in my day, shuffling around greeting people. We had many a conversation comparing our maladies and joking that between us there wasn't a specialist we didn't have a recommendation for, no "I have an app for that" it was "I have a doctor for that". Even with all his problems he would still smile and crack jokes.
Kerry Parker
March 18, 2021 | Nashua, NH | Coworker
It was a pleasure to work with Sully and enjoyed his humor. We will miss him. Dempsey
Clarence Dempsey
March 17, 2021 | Midwest City, OK | Coworker
So very sorry for your loss. He was Avery kind person even I High School.Always had a smile.
Maureen Parnell Banks
March 17, 2021 | Classmate
I will remember Sully as a very smart and funny guy. I shall always remember sitting next to him at the Copper Spoon while we were TDY.
David Colquitt
March 17, 2021 | Midwest City, OK | Coworker
