James K. Sullivan M.D.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Kevin Sullivan, MD, PhD, of Duxbury, MA, formerly Providence, RI. Jim left us after a valiant fight with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, surrounded by his loving family, on December 25, 2022.

Born on October 13, 1952 at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, CT, Jim was the son of the late Warren ("Sully") and Rosaleen (Fitzgerald) Sullivan. He is survived by his cherised wife and soulmate, Mary (Darche) Sullivan; his son, Luke Sullivan, of Providence, RI; his daughter, Jennifer Mathien and her husband, Timothy, and his grandchildren, Grace and Cooper Mathien (who adored their "Papa"), all of Hingham, MA. Jim is also survived by his two sisters: Eileen Sullivan (and brother-in-law Jack Brozna, MD) of Denver, CO, and Rosemary Sullivan (and brother-in-law Dennis DeCesare) of Charlestown, RI. He also leaves his cherished aunt, Sister Mary Fitzgerald, and mother-in law, Katherine Bates,his many nieces and nephews who will deeply miss their favorite uncle, as well as so many dear friends, colleagues, and patients.

Jim enjoyed a happy childhood in East Hartford, CT, attending St. Mary's Grammar School and East Catholic High School. After receiving his BS from Fairfield University, Dr. Sullivan earned his PhD in Biology from Wesleyan University and his MD from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. He completed his Internship at Hartford Hospital and his Residency in Psychiatry at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, where he served as Chief Resident.

Dr. Sullivan's clear passion for patient care is evident through his many achievements and roles through the years as a clinician, educator, and administrator. He made vast contributions to several hospitals and patient communities over his tenure, including Butler Hospital, The Providence Center and Memorial Hospital. Dr. Sullivan found great joy in mentoring other care providers and, accordingly, served as a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Alpert Medical School of Brown University. Over his career, Dr. Sullivan was the deserved recipient of multiple esteemed awards, including the Prattle Excellence in Teaching Award from Brown University, the National Alliance on Mental Illness Exemplary Psychiatrist Award, and the Robert J. Westlake Award for Physician Excellence. Dr. Sullivan's illustrious career culminated in his most recent positions: Chief Medical Officer of Butler Hospital, Executive Chief of Psychiatry and Senior Vice President of Care New England Health System, and Chief Medical Officer of the Care New England Medical Group.

Jim's sincere interest in others was palpable. His earnest attention, empathy and caring embraced and warmed the hearts of family and strangers alike. He had a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. His artistic soul was constantly seeking and creating beauty, whether through his magnificent artwork (watercolor was often his medium of choice, with flowers or landscapes his subjects), his abundant perennial flower gardens, or his spontaneous art projects with his grandchildren. His beautiful tenor voice echoed in churches, created joy on car rides and family gatherings.

The most important thing in Jim's life was his family. A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle, he was always there with a smile, a helping hand, and a willingness to truly listen and provide advice when needed. He loved being with and playing with his

children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews, to create the most spectacular adventures right at home.

Our lives have forever been enriched by his presence, and will be forever changed with his passing.



We will love you forever Jim, Dad, Papa! Rest now, and until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, January 4th from 4-7 PM at the Perry-McStay Funeral Home, 2555 Pawtucket Avenue, East Providence, RI. A private funeral and burial will follow. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (pulmonaryfibrosis.org) in Jim's honor.