Neil F. Sullivan

Neil F. Sullivan, of Sarasota, FL, formerly of Malden and Melrose, passed away peacefully at home on November 9, 2024, at age 76, after a long illness.

Neil was born in Malden on June 1, 1948, to Daniel Joseph Sullivan and Eleanor Mary (Crotty) Sullivan.  After graduating from Malden High School in 1967, he received his Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice from North Shore Community College.

Neil’s life journey was filled with courage and service.  He was proud to have bravely served in combat in the Air Force and as an Army Ranger in Vietnam, achieving the rank of Sergeant.  His commitment to protecting and serving others led him to a career as a respected police officer for the Town of Saugus, and later as a Special Deputy US Marshall at the federal courthouse in Boston.

Neil’s love story with his wife, Judith, is a testament to the enduring power of fate. They attended high school together and reconnected at a reunion 32 years later. They were married in 2000.

Known for his quick wit, Neil had a great sense of humor and could effortlessly relate captivating stories that left all who listened in stitches.  He found joy in simple pleasures – sailing, road trips, and cooking delicious meals for loved ones. And he was proud of his success and loved traveling to Key West, and yet he found solace and peace in the beauty of the ocean. Neil’s favorite drives, from Ipswich to Rockport and along the New Hampshire seacoast, were cherished day trips.

He is survived by his wife, Judith Allegra (Taddonio) Sullivan, with whom he shared 24 years of marriage; son Timothy Francis Sullivan and his wife Tammy, of Huntsville AL; his sister Clare Peterson of Derwood, Maryland; sister-in-law Marilyn Deren and her husband Daniel, of Tiverton RI; Shawn’s partner Gina Mercer of Riverside RI; and grandsons Devin Sullivan of Huntsville AL and Nicholas Sullivan of Riverside RI. He is also survived by Judith’s daughter Sharon Lebrun and her husband Daniel; daughter Christine Welsh; and Sharon’s children Molly and Jake. Neil was predeceased by his parents, his sons Devin Patrick Sullivan and Shawn Michael Sullivan, his brother Daniel Sullivan, and his sister Elaine McMullen.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather during visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main Street, Melrose on Sunday, November 17, from 2-5PM and again on Monday for his Funeral Service celebrated at 10AM.  Interment will be at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose.

Neil’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.