Mary E. (Donovan) Sullivan, 78, of New Bedford died Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at home after a brief illness. She was the loving wife of James E. Sullivan, Jr., with whom she shared 56 years of marriage.
Born in New Bedford, the daughter of the late Matthew and Ellen (Canty) Donovan, she lived in New Bedford for all of her life. She was a graduate of Holy Family High School.
Mary was formerly employed by Gilbert J. Costa Insurance Agency for many years until her retirement.
She was a member of the New Bedford YMCA, the New Bedford Council on Aging, the Salvation Army, and the Ladies Branch of the New Bedford Port Society. She was a former member of the New Bedford Junior Women's Club, St. Mary's Couples Club, and St. Mary's Ladies Guild.
Mary's greatest joys included: traveling, especially to Ireland, and spending time with family and friends. Mostly she loved being part of her grandchildren's lives. She was a constant, enthusiastic presence at their many activities. She adored each and every one of them and was always happiest whenever they were near.
Survivors include her husband, Jim; four children, James E. Sullivan, III and his wife Rhonda, Maureen E. Sullivan-Boyle and her husband James, Sean M. Sullivan and his wife Sarah, and Thomas P. Sullivan and his wife Jennifer; 11 grandchildren, Meaghan, James IV, Ryan, Aidan, Katelyn, Lauren, Lilly, Jack, and Hannah Maeve Sullivan, and Aileen and Donovan Boyle; her sister-in-law, Kathleen Costa; her brother-in-law, Michael Sullivan and his wife Diane; and many nieces and nephews.
She was the sister of the late Patrick and Matthew Donovan and Johanna Ellis.
Due to the current restrictions on public gatherings, her Funeral Service and burial will be private for immediate family. A public Funeral Mass will be held at a later date. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.