Terry Sullivan

1950 - 2021

SULLIVAN, Terrance Charles

Terrance Charles Sullivan, age 70, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away on Saturday January 16th surrounded by family at his beloved home of more than 40 years.

Terry was born in Neptune, New Jersey on March 23, 1950 to Marilyn and John Sullivan. After moving to Athens, Georgia in 1964 and graduating from Athens High School in 1968, Terry attended the University of Georgia where he received a Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, in Political Science and History in 1972. While at the University of Georgia, he worked multiple part-time jobs, was active in Student Government, and was selected for membership in Phi Beta Kappa, Phi Gamma Delta, and Gridiron Secret Society. He remained a lifelong fan of the Dawgs, which he showed through his constant presence at both home and away games and his passionate dislike of the Florida Gators. After joining the US Air Force Reserves in 1972, Terry attended The University of Virginia School of Law where he was chair of the Moot Court Board, earning a Juris Doctor in 1975. Later, Terry was honorably discharged from the Air Force in 1980 after achieving the rank of Captain.

Over a distinguished 45-year legal career as a trial lawyer, Terry was a fixture in the courtroom, trying more than 175 jury trials to verdict. Among other distinctions, he was elected as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers – the preeminent organization of trial lawyers in North America. More than anything, he was proud of every opportunity he had to work with and mentor lawyers younger than himself. He felt his most important work as a lawyer was passing on the skills and knowledge that he had learned over the course of his career, and he always aimed to give young lawyers the same opportunities to learn and grow that he had. He is remembered as a well-respected member of the Georgia Bar, known by so many attorneys for his work ethic, intelligence, and all-around good character.

Terry was also known as a voracious reader with a sincere love of history. Anybody who spent time with him knew to expect at any moment a lesson on his favorite Civil War battles, a random bit of history about whatever city they were traveling to, or at the very least, some quotes from his favorite historical figure, General George Patton. He was also an avid traveler, having visited over 30 countries and all 50 states. He especially enjoyed traveling with his children, who became the unwilling recipients of many such historical anecdotes.

Terry is survived by his wife, Kathy; his children Jenny, Michael, Cynthia, Gregory, and Jesse; his siblings, Mary, Arthur (his favorite brother), and Laura; and his grandchildren Jenaye and Kaylyn. He was a devoted father and loyal friend known for his generosity and larger-than-life personality. He will be remembered for his big laugh, many stories, love of reading and history, and deep and obvious love for his family. Though many will mourn his passing, all who knew him would agree that he lived a full and complete life dedicated to others and worthy of celebration. Or, as General Patton said:

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.

Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life gathering this spring (date and location to be announced). To express condolences please visit: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/atlanta-ga/terrance-sullivan-10005747.