Berry "Jack" Jackson Sullivan, Sr

Berry Jackson “Jack” Sullivan Sr. of Watkinsville, GA passed away peacefully during an afternoon nap on December 20th, 2018.  He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Suzanne Gardner Sullivan

Jack and his sister, Jean Sullivan Jones (deceased) of Thomaston, GA, were raised by their parents, the late William Berry “Bee” Sullivan and Thelma Carter Sullivan, in Valdosta, GA.  He attended and graduated with a degree from the University of Georgia’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.  Most importantly, while at UGA he met the love of his life, Suzanne.  Jack was a member of the Sigma Nu Fraternity and an Army ROTC cadet.

After UGA graduation and a short stint in the Army Air Corp, Jack and Suzanne returned to Valdosta Georgia to make a home and life together.  Jack joined the Langdale Companies in a new oil business, which ultimately became “Sullivan Oil”.  Jack and notable partners were involved with many business endeavors in the area.  Those ventures included the development of Francis Lake, Hammock Lake, and the Francis Lake Golf Course; additionally, a brick manufacturer, motel, and a campground in Lake Park, along with a Chevron distributorship and convenience store chain in Valdosta.  Jack was a wholehearted civic participant.  He served in the Georgia Legislature from 1966 to 1968, followed by stints on the Area Planning and Development Commission and the Valdosta Lowndes County Industrial Authority.  Jack served on the Board of First State Bank (Synovus) diligently until his retirement in 1998.   Jack and Suzanne were dedicated members of Christ Episcopal Church in Valdosta and both endeavored to live the teachings of the faith.

Jack is survived by his two children, Beth Copeland (Jim) of Statham, GA and Jack Sullivan, Jr. (Beth) of Lake Park, GA. Jack was able to ensure that his children graduated from college and joyously watched as their families have grown to include his grandchildren, Ben, Suzanne (Sean), Sean, Garrett (Erin), Corey (Jenna), and Cole (Lauren); and great-grandchildren Brooke, Ashley, Colleen, Maggie, Evelyn, Owen, and "coming soon" Sullivan (Garrett and Erin).  They all loved their “Big Jack” dearly.

Following retirement, Jack and Suzanne moved to Ponte Vedra Beach.  In the community of the Plantation, Jack’s competitive nature kept him active in tennis, golf and his favorite, gin rummy.  Following Suzanne’s passing, Jack moved the card game to Watkinsville to enjoy the company and care of his daughter Beth and her family.  With his instincts and card memory intact till the last nap; heaven's card tables are lamenting the phrase, “I’m gonna knock with 10”.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held at Sullivan Farms, 294 Sullivan Lane, North East, Lake Park, GA 31636 at 11:00 in the morning on February 2nd, 2019.  The Reverend Jim Elliott will preside

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations made to a worthy charity of choice.