Joel Gary Sugarman

Joel Gary Sugarman, born on October 6, 1953, in Malden, Massachusetts, passed away on February 23, 2024, in the Cayman Islands. He grew up in Chelsea before settling in Pembroke, where he built a life filled with love, laughter, and community.
Joel is survived by his wife, Marise Sugarman; his children, Joanna Sugarman, Joshua Sugarman of New York, and Gregory Sugarman and his wife Diana of Abington; and his cherished grandchildren, Selena, Jocelyn, and Arthur. He is also survived by his brother, Bruce Sugarman, and his wife Karen of Florida; and his sister, Moira Sugarman of Chelsea. He was preceded in death by his parents, Beatrice and Jack Sugarman.
During his youth, Joel and Bruce ran an ice cream truck together, an early sign of his entrepreneurial spirit and love for bringing joy to others. He attended Boston College and later became deeply involved in his community. While raising his children, he was an active member of the Pembroke School Committee, advocating for education and local initiatives. In retirement, he dedicated his time to the Pembroke Community Center, continuing his passion for service.
A diehard Boston sports fan, Joel's enthusiasm was unmatched. Whether at Fenway Park or Gillette Stadium, he was known as the king of tailgating-grilling up feasts, making friends with strangers, and turning every game into an unforgettable experience.
Joel had a larger-than-life personality. He loved making people laugh, embarking on adventures, and truly living life to the fullest. His warmth and energy left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
He will be deeply missed by his Edgewater Drive community, Friendship Home community, Chelsea friends, Boston College friends, and his cherished group of friends known as the Ya-Ya's and Yo-Yo's.
His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. May his legacy of love and laughter bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Friendship Home (458 Main Street, Norwell, MA 02061) and Plymouth County Family Support Inc. (118 Long Pond Road Suite 205, Plymouth, MA 02360).
A funeral home service will be held on Saturday, March 8th, at Sullivan Funeral Homes (551 Washington Street, Hanover, MA 02339) starting at 12 p.m. with visitation to follow from 1 p.m.–3 p.m. Reception at the Indian Pond Country Club (60 Country Club Way, Kingston, MA 02364) from 4 p.m.–7 p.m