Violet "Vi" Virginia Sullivan Obituary (1931 - 2023)

SULLIVAN Honoring Vi's wishes, a private service for immediate family only was held on Monday, May 22, 2023 The brightest light in our camp has gone out. Our beloved Mother, Violet Virginia Nichols Sullivan, age 92, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023 in Decatur Memorial Hospital. Vi, as she was commonly known, was born to Walter Jefferson Nichols and Martha Naomi Walls Nichols, on her Mother's birthday in February of 1931 in Mode, IL. She was predeceased by her parents, all 12 siblings and her husband of 48 years, Joseph William Sullivan whom she married in December of 1952. She was also preceded in death by her beloved Shih Tzu, Oreo, who was her constant and comforting companion following the loss of her husband. Mom lovingly referred to Oreo as "my little girl". She is survived by the lights of her life - her five children, William Joseph Sullivan (Debbie) of Decatur, Vesta Sullivan Gray (Daniel) of Charleston, SC, Cathlynne Sullivan Glosser of Decatur, John Michael Sullivan of Decatur and Jerry Lee Sullivan (Debbie) of Nebo, NC, her "little lights"- nine grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews who referred to her as Aunt Vi and Aunt Virginia. Truly, THE Rock of our family, she will be missed. During her youth, Vi attended and graduated from Stewardson-Strausburg school district. She was an excellent student who enjoyed school and was very proud of her accomplishment as the Shelby County Spelling Bee Champion. Even up to one month ago, she could, without hesitation, spell just about any word we would challenge her with. Aa a young woman she relocated to Decatur where she began working at Millikin Bank as a teller and quickly worked her way up to bookkeeping supervisor. She always commented on how much she enjoyed that type of work but having five children, all under the age of seven, she gave up her career to raise them. This, being her most important life's work. Vi had been a long-time member of Tabernacle Baptist Church where she and Dad found much joy in the fellowship and worship there. For Mom, family was her everything and her passion. She was extremely hardworking, highly principled, fiercely protective, completely devoted - a caretaker of many as well as a loyal friend and neighbor who was loved by all who met her. She was referred to as "Old Faithful" by one of her sisters as she was at the nursing home every day to ensure loved ones were properly cared for and getting their nutrition. She adored sunny days and being outside tending to her vegetable garden and flowers, She loved walking and could often be seen making her way throughout the neighborhood with her dog often stopping to chat with neighbors. We are comforted by the fact that she is now pain-free, eternally joyful, completely restored and in the arms of Jesus and the loved ones she has missed so dearly. Our family would like to offer our heartfelt thanks to Mom's long-term physician, Dr. Timothy Miller who, over the many years, has provided Mom with excellent care, kindness and compassion. He was always accessible and timely with responses to any concerns or needs and was adored by her and is, by us. We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to the staff of Hickory Point Christian Village, who were so loving and caring during her time with them. Lastly, thank you to the staff of Decatur Memorial Hospital who were involved with Mom's care. The ER staff, caregivers and support staff on 5100, pastoral services, hospitalists - all provided great care and were a source of comfort to Mom and to us. Tanzyus Logan Funeral Service and Care is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the family guestbook. www.tanzyusloganmemorialpages.com