Vera Sullivan

SULLIVAN

Vera H. Sullivan, age 83, formerly of Wappingers Falls, died on Friday, April 22, 2016 in Columbus, Ohio surrounded by all of her children and sons-in-law Jon and Kenneth. Born March 1, 1933 in Newark, New Jersey, Vera was the daughter of Harriet and Charles Koller, graduated from Clifford Scott High School in East Orange, NJ, and on May 9, 1953 married John Michael Sullivan at St Rose of Lima Church in Newark, NJ. Vera was employed at IBM, East Fishkill for 21 years as secretary and analyst and retired in 1993. After retiring she worked for her daughter Janet at the Honey Bear day care center. In 2002 she stayed at home to care for her husband John (Jack) until his death in 2002. Vera is survived by her brother Theodore (Ted) of Bradenton, Florida, daughter Michelle Alessandrello of Poughkeepsie (and son-in-law Jon, grandchildren Jon and Kristen (with husband William (Bill), and great grandsons Lucas and Connor); son Michael of Hilliard, Ohio (with grandchildren Michael James (MJ) and Samantha); son John of Marysville Ohio (and daughter-in-law Kelly, and grandchildren Lauren, Jennifer, J. Michael III, Katherine, Elizabeth, and Rachel); daughter Janet Strang (and grandchildren Derek and Kyle); son Robert (with daughter-in-law Penny (deceased in 2007 after a brave battle with brain cancer), and daughter-in-law Carla); daughter Mary Johnson (and son-in-law Kenneth and grandchildren Ryan and Amanda); along with many nieces, nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Vera was known for her generosity and servant’s heart. She volunteered for Meals on Wheels,RSVP, and the ABC Reading Program at Evans Elementary School. Vera was a friend to many and enjoyed her time and the many friendships she made at the Wappingers Senior Center, where she played bingo, went on many trips, and was involved with other activities. Vera was a prayerful follower of Jesus Christ, and over the years attended St Mary’s Catholic Church in Wappingers Falls, Mt. Alvernia Catholic Church, and Community Baptist Church. Vera will always be remembered as a faithful wife and devoted, entirely selfless mother, grandmother, and friend. More than anything, her life was centered on caring for, spending time with, and enjoying her six children, 14 grand children and two great grandchildren. A memorial service will be held in the Poughkeepsie area as soon as it can be scheduled by the family. Vera and her family have been blessed by advances made in the treatment of pediatric cancer, autism, kidney disease, organ transplant, and cystic fibrosis. If you would like to make a donation to a related organization in Vera’s name that would be much appreciated.