Cornelius Joseph Sullivan III, 68, passed away Saturday, April 6, 2019, surrounded by his loving family. “Connie”, or “CJ” as he was called by close friends and family, was a master carpenter, engineer, and inventor. He was well-respected for his knowledge of construction and his expression of fine craftsmanship. Connie grew up in Cranston, RI where he later raised a family after returning from honorable service in the US Navy during the Vietnam war, serving on one of the final cruises of the USS Intrepid.
He leaves behind Barbara Larance, his loving companion, who tirelessly cared for him through a long illness. He will be forever remembered by his four children, Kyle Sullivan and his wife Josephina, Kayla Carter and her husband Joshua, Shane Sullivan and his wife Megan, Ryan Sullivan and his partner Rachel Ayotte, as well as Barbara’s children, John Larance, Brian Larance, and Christine Jones. He brought love and laughter to over 20 grandchildren and step-grandchildren, who fondly called him “Papa”. Connie also leaves three sisters, Rita Harrison, Maureen Sullivan, Susanne Sullivan, his brother Kevin Sullivan, and many nieces and nephews.
Connie deeply believed in the value of hard work, faith in God, the merits of virtue and perseverance, helping others, and individual rights. He was a strong and loyal protector, dedicated to both his near and extended families, and his church. Whether it was offering sage advice, mentoring new tradesmen, or getting his hands dirty with home repairs or volunteer work, he was always willing to lend a hand and lead with expertise. He left a lasting impression on all who knew him and will be missed beyond words.
Calling hours will be from 4:00 to 7:00 pm, Friday, April 12 at IANNOTTI Funeral Home, 415 Washington St. (Rte.117) Coventry, RI. Family and friends are invited to gather at 10:00 am, Saturday, April 13 for his funeral mass at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 596 Jefferson Blvd, Warwick, RI, followed by a commemorative service at RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 301 South County Trail in Exeter. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to St. Bernard Church, “Finishing The Mission” Campaign, 275 Tower Hill Road, North Kingstown RI 02852.
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