OBITUARY: Roland E. Sullivan, 75

Below is an obituary from Cota Funeral Homes:

WILMINGTON, MA — Roland E. Sullivan, of Wilmington. Beloved husband of Rita (McCarthy). Loving father of Brandon A. Barnard- Sullivan of NH.

Roland held his wife Kathy and their son Brandon at the center of his world. Snow, sleet, or rain Roland woke up at 4:30am to bring coffee to them every morning. He became the secret behind Kathy’s fashionable wardrobe, and was the calming voice in Kathy’s world. For his son Brandon, Roland was a steady anchor – a constant presence, a quiet strength, and a source of security. Whether tossing a ball together in the backyard or bringing Brandon to his first gym workout – a passion Brandon carries with him to this day. Roland’s guidance and love left a lasting mark on Brandon and Kathy, serving as a pillar of strength, stability, and unwavering presence in their lives. Roland loved being surrounded by family and friends, and he will be remembered by his smile. The type of smile that brightened every room he entered. His smile, and laughter not only brought warmth to everyone around him, but was a breath of fresh air. Roland’s kindness knew no boundaries, which translated into making friends everywhere he went. Once you were welcomed into his life, you were a friend for life – his loyalty and warmth leaving a lasting mark on everyone he met. Roland maintained friendships throughout his life, from people that he met back in high school to people he met walking down the street, and once you were accepted in Roland’s life, you were friends with him for life.

Roland’s kindness even translated into his work life, as he centered a career over helping the less fortunate. Kindness came naturally to him, expressed through a steady sincerity and a constant sense of calm, with the well placed occasional humorous or sarcastic comment. Roland’s favorite place was Martha’s Vineyard, where the world seemed to slow down and every moment felt simple and full. He took delight in walks down the street to the Dock Street Coffee Shop, enjoying the breeze and the soft hum of the harbor. Roland had a hidden talent of crocheting and a joy of reading James Patterson novels. However, he was more well known for his barbecue creations. Brandon even helped his father name his BBQ creations; Ro Ro Ribs. Roland’s brisket and iconic ribs won over any fancy catering. Roland’s love of food, not only included eating it, but also cooking the food for others to enjoy.

Relatives and friends may visit at the Cota Funeral Home, 335 Park St. (corner of Park St. and Rte.28) NORTH READING, at Reading line on Saturday, Feb. 14th from 11am-2pm. At the request of the family interment will be private. Roland’s love for animals also knew no bounds, and he sought to help every animal he met, even the ones on TV so please In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Nevin’s Farm in Salem, NH or Greater Dog Rescue New England (GDRNE).