Joseph P. Sullivan passed away on May 27, 2024, at the age of 82, after a brief illness. Originally from Dorchester, Massachusetts, he was a son to the late Bartley and Agnes (Flaherty) Sullivan. He also lived in Quincy, Savin Hill and most recently in South Boston, Massachusetts. He was a caring brother to Mary Leach of Braintree, Bart Sullivan of Dedham, and the late John “Sean” Sullivan, Robert Sullivan and Michael Sullivan. Joseph was also a respected brother-in-law to Donna MacLellan of Braintree.
Beloved husband of the late Lois S. (Francario) Forkin, with whom he shared many loving years traveling the world together. Caring stepfather of Stephanie A. Paschal and her husband Walter of Holden, MA; Jennifer L. Murphy and son in law Joseph of Middleboro, MA and Rachel A. Pierce and her husband and his friend Robert of South Boston.
His legacy continues through his grandkids, great grandkids, many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandnieces, and grandnephews. He was always happy to be seen.
As a United States Army Veteran, Joseph served in Germany, where he picked up his love of German beer, schnitzel and Kartoffelsalat (German potato salad). His experience in the Armed Forces translated into becoming a life-long member of the James J. Rice AMVETS Post 28 in Dorchester, in addition to regularly placing American flags at graves during the Memorial Day weekend. He was the first of his siblings to visit his parents’ home country, Ireland. He served as an officer of the Boston Police Department during particularly challenging times in the 1970s. During his later years, he so enjoyed driving private livery vehicles and school buses, whether ferrying big names like members of the Patriots & Celtics or lesser known sports teams, like those from Boston College High School.
He was a dedicated Boston sports fan, engaged in all the exploits of these teams, particularly the New England Patriots. His love of sports extended towards other teams, like the Washington Commanders, because they started as the Boston Braves. He was even following the progress of the Bruins in the hospital when he was ill.
Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to greet the family during the visiting hours on Friday, June 7th, from 10-11am at Saint Monica’s Church, 331 Old Colony Ave, South Boston, MA 02127. The Funeral Mass follows at 11am, also at St. Monica’s Church. Burial will then follow at Blue Hill Cemetery in Braintree.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joseph’s name may be made to the AMVETS (https://www.amvets.org/) or Boston College High School Athletics (https://www.bchigh.edu/give).
For additional information or to leave a sympathy message www.casperfuneralservices.com