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Farewell to John (JC) Sullivan
A Great Loss to the Veteran and Irish Communities

By Jim Riley

Sadly, we have to say goodbye to one of our own…. Our good friend and frequent contributor to this paper, John (JC) Sullivan, passed away in Cleveland on September 22, 2024 surrounded by his family.

Everyone who met JC will remember his humor, his patriotism, and his intelligence. In recent years, he began writing and soon became a frequent contributor to the DD 214 Chronicles, the Irish Echo (based in New York), and the Mayo News in Ireland. His articles can still be found on the internet.

On active duty, JC served with the 2d Armored Division “Hell on Wheels” in Germany. He continued serving his country and fellow Veterans when he became commander of American Legion Posts #196 and 801. He’s been a very devoted and active alumnus of Benedictine High School class of 1960.

One time, JC went on the local Gerry Quinn Irish Radio Program to discuss an article he had written about a local Irish event. The listeners and Gerry Quinn took an instant liking to him, and for the next twenty years, JC became one of the co-hosts of the show. It can be heard at 1420 AM every Sunday from 10 until noon. JC would live-stream the interviews and guest performers and later post them to the show’s website and Facebook page.

If there was a local Irish event, chances are JC would be there. He was a proud member of the Mayo Society of Greater Cleveland and the Irish American Club East Side. He became active with the Ancient Order of Hibernians both in the Cleveland and Akron areas and eventually became a national officer for the organization.
He stayed active in his community when he later served on Northfield Village’s council. He leaves behind his family and many, many friends. He will be missed by them all. Rest easy good Friend……you served your Country well.