Judith Sullivan

Judith F. Sullivan, 85, of Manlius, and Pittsford, New York passed away on Friday after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Syracuse, she graduated from Fabius High School and the State University of New York at Oneonta. A dedicated teacher for 35 years, Judy touched the lives of hundreds of children, from her pre-first classes to her sixth-grade classes. In 1993 and 1994, she was awarded first place in the New York State public television competition for "Innovative Teaching with Telecommunications" presented by NYS Education Department Board of Regents in association with PBS of New York State. She retired from Fayetteville-Manlius School District in 2001.
Judy was not only a talented teacher but a talented actress as well. For over 25 years, she appeared in many stage and dinner theater productions in the Syracuse area. She was a partner in Sullivan-Nye Productions and produced many shows along with Marshall Nye, which included dinner theater shows for the Syracuse Cultural Resources Summer Theater Festival. For several summers, Judy also worked as an assistant director and director for the Fayetteville-Manlius Recreation Department summer theater production.
Judy was a member of St. Ann's Church and served on the Christian Service Committee for many years. She also enjoyed her book club that included many of her fellow retired teachers.
Judy adored her family especially her grandchildren. She was predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Thomas Sullivan, and stepchildren Lt. Daniel Sullivan and Stephanie Ciampa. Judy is survived by her brother James Finch and sister-in-law Sue of Myrtle Beach, SC; stepdaughter Deborah Minde of Denver, CO; daughter Megan and her husband Dr. Jack Finnell of Pittsford, NY; grandchildren Colleen (Jules), Becca (Eric), Tommy, Ryan, Kieryn and Regan as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Calling hours will be held at 10:00 to 11:00am on Friday, January 16, 2026 at St. Ann's Church in Manlius followed by the celebration of a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. A private burial to follow in Manlius Village Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Judy's memory may be made to the New York State Dental Foundation Dr. Thomas H. Sullivan Substance Abuse Grant Program www.nysdentalfoundation.org or a charity of one's choice.