Joyce G. Sullivan
Born October 14, 1925 in Melbourne, FloridaDeparted April 26, 2022 in Melbourne, Florida
Joyce G. Sullivan, 96, of Melbourne, passed peacefully on April 26, 2022, with her long-time caregiver daughters at her side, Karen Gail (Bob Coordsen), and Rett Gray. She was born in Melbourne on October 14, 1925, to Jesse C. (J.C.) and Nola Scott Davis. Her other family members include her grandchildren Wes, Candace, Christy and great grandchildren Justin, Claire, and Jaxon.
She was preceded in death by her husband RP “Russ” Sullivan Jr.; parents Jesse and Nola Scott Davis; brothers Jesse Davis and Billy Davis and her son Tripper Sullivan.
Joyce was born in Melbourne, population of about 25,000 people. She was a busy homemaker for her three children and businessman husband. She mastered gourmet cooking. Her husband often invited business associates home from his Sully’s Lumber Yard for lunch with short notice so that they could enjoy a delicious home cooked lunch. Joyce loved all sports but golf; surf fishing and playing bridge with friends were her favorites. She was active in Melbourne High sports where she was a drum majorette. After college, she was a women’s basketball coach at Melbourne High.
When her children were young, the family spent summer free time in their Sebastian Inlet cabin (prior to the state park development) where they fished and swam daily. Joyce always caught the most fish, she cleaned all the fish, and then cooked all the fish. They lived near Melbourne Beach, ocean front, but moved downtown where the children could walk to school. She was a skilled competitive golfer who was a member of the Port Malabar Women’s Golf Club and Melbourne Golf Course. She often bragged about golfing with Sam Sneed, professional golfer. She and her golfing buddies hung out at the clubhouses to play bridge.
Joyce and Russ enjoyed several overseas trips on freighters where they met long lasting friends. They visited places that are no longer safe for civilian travels. Joyce took great pride assisting Russ in founding the Holmes Regional Medical Center, Holmes Fitness Center, and the Palm Bay Hospital. He served on the board many years and was the chairman during much of the development. She occasionally volunteered as a candy-striper. She worked to help Russ win a city council election.
At Joyce’s request, there will be no church service. Rather, family and friends are asked to do something nice for someone else and have fun for themselves. If you are interested in attending any future (unplanned) graveside service, please register on this Brownlie Maxwell web page.
