William J. Sullivan 1951-2025

He was born June 30, 1951, in Youngstown, a son of the late Atty. Robert E. and Isabel Kennedy Sullivan.

Bill attended Ursuline High School before graduating from The Rayen School. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Youngstown State University, and worked for Judge Joyce and Judge McNally at the Mahoning County Juvenile Court.

Bill’s talent and passion for storytelling ultimately led him to become a beloved sports writer for The Vindicator, where he captured the essence of local athletics and the spirit of the community through his words.

An avid reader and writer, he built an extensive home library, somehow recalling the exact location of every book among its many shelves. Bill was known for his heartfelt dedication to planning events for children within the community, always aiming to bring joy and laughter to their lives. As a lifelong friend to many, he maintained a special bond with those he met in grade school, forging connections that lasted a lifetime.

Stories about Sully abound. His playful sense of humor was legendary and uniquely expressed. Friends and loved ones regularly received items in the mail that he felt would elicit a chuckle — a used bowling ball, a single cowboy boot or some other fun item. These “gifts” — always stamped directly and without packaging — provided everyone involved with a great story, including the unsuspecting postman.

Sully’s custom-made birdhouses were works of art that were generously given away. As the warm weather nears, the many who knew and loved him will welcome the arrival of spring and remember him to the songs of their feathered occupants.

Bill is survived by his wife, Kelly A. Black Sullivan; stepchildren, Zoe and Logan; a son, Connor (Christina) Sullivan and his grandchildren, Brennan and Kiera; as well as his siblings, Ginny (Joe Yannerella) Sullivan of Austintown, Jack (Dee) Sullivan of Liberty Township and Joe Sullivan of Boardman; and nephews Bob, Tim, Bill, Brian and Adam.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Angels for Animals, 4750 OH-165, Canfield, OH 44406, www.angelsforanimals.org.

Professional arrangements were handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.

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