Sullivan, Joseph T.

Joseph Thomas Sullivan, 93, of Canton, is remembered with great love by his family. Born on April 17, 1933, and raised in Milton, Joseph graduated from Milton High School in 1951. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

In 1954, Joseph proudly enlisted in the United States Army. He attended the Defense Language Institute at the Presidio in Monterey, California, where he became proficient in Korean and served with the Army Security Agency as an interpreter. Following his honorable discharge, he continued his education, earning two master’s degrees in education from the University of Massachusetts Boston.

Following his patriotic service, Joseph dedicated 33 years to the Boston Public Schools, where he served as both a science teacher and administrator. He was respected for his intelligence, steady leadership, and commitment to educating young people.

Above all else, Joseph was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Sheila Patricia Sullivan, and took great pride in his family.

He is survived by his children, Joseph T. Sullivan (Linda) of Salisbury, Gail Sullivan Chibani (Saade) of Tampa, David P. Sullivan (Christine) of Canton, and Michael Sullivan of Walpole.

He was the proud grandfather of Sarah, Andrew (Courtney) and Matthew Chibani; Christopher Sullivan, Lauren Sullivan Strickler (Matthew), Brian D. Sullivan, and Tracey Sullivan Pellows (Bennet); and the cherished great-grandfather of John and Emily Strickler, Nova Sullivan, Lillian and Grace Chibani, and Audrey Pellows.

Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Joseph M. Sullivan and Louise Kingsbury Sullivan; his brother, John F. Sullivan; and his sister, Patricia Sullivan Kanz.

As the good Irish Catholic man he was, Joseph loved his wife above all else, treasured his family, and was deeply proud of his country. And, of course, he never lost his loyalty to the Boston Red Sox.

Joseph will be remembered for his quiet strength, devotion to family, dedication to education, and the values he lived by throughout his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and family that will continue through the generations.

Donations in Joseph’s memory may be made to the Canton Veterans Association or to St. Oscar Romero Parish.

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Posted by Canton Citizen on Jun 18 2026. Filed under Obituaries. Both comments and pings are currently closed.