Paul Arthur Sullivan

With deep love and peaceful hearts, we announce the passing of Paul Sullivan, who went home to be with his Lord and Savior on May 10, 2025, at the age of 92. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Paul lived every one of his years with joy, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to family and Jesus.

Born to farmers, Shep and Dovie, in Sullivan’s Hollow in Mize, MS, Paul grew up with a deep appreciation for the simple things: a good conversation, a funny joke, a shared meal, a rocker on the porch, and singing hymns around the piano. He carried that appreciation with him through every chapter of his life, inspiring those around him to slow down, savor every moment, and never miss an opportunity to be present. He never missed a milestone, big or small. He was the kind of man who showed up-whether it was for a school play, a softball game, a graduation, or simply a family dinner. His presence wasn’t just physical; it was felt deeply, in the way he listened, encouraged, and made each person feel loved.

There wasn’t much he enjoyed more than a good meal with family or friends. With his playful spirit and warm nature, he had a gift for bringing people together. No gathering was complete without his stories, corny jokes and thoughtful prayer. With Teresa, his wife of 56 years, they created a home that was a place of warmth and comfort, where everyone was welcome, and all who entered left with a full heart and a full belly.

Though he accomplished much in his 92 years, Paul measured success not in accolades or achievements, but in the relationships he nurtured and the love he shared. He taught us all that life’s greatest treasures are found in the everyday moments, and that laughter is one of the purest forms of connection. Some of his fondest memories and favorite stories to tell came from his time as Director of Operations for McDonalds, decades of service and fellowship at Pass Road Baptist Church (particularly, coaching the ladies’ softball team and his years teaching his couples’ Sunday school class), and, also, travelling with his amusement business-all through which he built life-long friendships he held close to his heart.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Teresa Sullivan; his grandson Aaron Ross Sullivan; and his three sisters, Sally Ann Sullivan, Geraldine “Boots” Owens, and Janith Allen.

Paul is survived by his four children, Kim Sullivan (Geraldine), Yvonne Sullivan, Mike Sullivan (Tanya), and Greg Sullivan; six grandchildren, Lauren Rose (Teddy), Janet Stroud (Joseph), Matthew Sullivan (Denni Lynn), Megan Swain (Dillon), Cameron Sullivan and Nicole Sullivan; ten great grandchildren, Thea and Barrett Rose; Sydney, Carly and Hazel Stroud; Lainey Sullivan; Caleb Garrard; Grayson Newman; Chandler Coulter (Kaja); and Baylie McDaniel; one great-great grandchild, Casen Coulter; and one brother, Vernie Sullivan; along with countless beloved friends and extended and blended family.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing he is now at peace and in the presence of the Lord he loved so dearly. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:23.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Paul by sharing a meal, a laugh, or a story with someone you love-just as he would have wanted.

A visitation will be held Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the O’Neal Road location of Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, 15452 O’Neal Road, Gulfport from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. In addition to the visitation on the Coast, there will be a gathering to honor Paul at his childhood home, the Holler House, in Mize, MS, at 2 pm on Sunday, May 18, 2025.

Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home, O’Neal Road, Gulfport, is honored to serve the family of Paul Sullivan.