JAMES “JIM” G. SULLIVAN, JR.
1929-2021
In Loving Memory James (Jim) George
Sullivan, Jr. November 2, 1929 July 6, 2021
Our admired and beloved Jim rose in honor to the Lord’s heavenly kingdom on Tuesday, July 6, 2021. He passed away peacefully at age 91 with his loving family by his side and at long last joins his adoring wife, Betty, through God’s glory.
Jim was born in Clayton, Louisiana, on November 2, 1929, to Odile Sullivan and James Sullivan, Sr. and grew up in Louisiana. Upon graduating from Ferriday High School, he enlisted in the United States Air Force and proudly served as a pilot from 1951-1955. Jim was a lieutenant in the Korean War and flew F-86 Sabre fighter jets in the 67th F.B.S. and 18th F.B.G. He was a lifetime member of the F-86 Sabre Pilots Association.
After his service, Jim attended Louisiana State University and graduated in 1957 with a B.S. in Geology. He met the beautiful love of his life, Betty, while studying at LSU, and they were married on June 2, 1957, at University Methodist Church in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
They eventually moved to Texas and settled in Houston.
Following his time at LSU, Jim began his career as a geologist at Union Producing Company in Shreveport, Louisiana. After spending time as a geologist in Jackson, Mississippi, and Lafayette, Louisiana, he settled in Corpus Christi, Texas, and eventually Houston, joining Pennzoil, where he spent his career. Jim was a member of the National Geological Association and a notable geologist holding positions of increasing importance over the lifetime of his career.
Jim, lovingly named “Poppy” and later “Pops” by his grandchildren, is survived by his daughter, Sherry Menger; son, Shawn Sullivan and wife, Sheila; granddaughter, Misty Morales and husband Adam and great-granddaughters, Meadow, Milan, and Monet Morales; grandson, Matt Menger and wife Elaine and great-grandsons, Maximus and Miles Menger; and granddaughter, Sydney Sullivan; sister, Patricia Goltry; nephews, Chuck Goltry and Eric Goltry; and numerous relatives in Louisiana.
Jim was a generous, selfless, and unconditionally loving husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather. He was a proud patriot of our great country, a giving member of Chapelwood United Methodist Church, and a forever LSU Tiger alumnus who faithfully read Tiger Rag until his final days. He enjoyed reading and supporting National Geographic and collecting rocks, minerals, and gemstones and later sharing them with his grandchildren. Jim was a skilled vegetable gardener, growing delicious tomatoes, cucumbers, jalapeños, and bell peppers for his family and neighbors to enjoy. On fall days, he loved watching Houston Astros baseball and making homemade apple and pumpkin pies. One of Jim’s favorite activities was following the stock market, which he did with consistent enthusiasm over many years. Pops’ pockets weren’t to be found without Werther’s Original Candy, a white handkerchief, and plenty of quarters to share. Above all, he devoted himself to the lives of his family.
The memories of our dear father and grandfather run deep and wide as he is our unwavering rock of love and support. His gentle spirit, honorable character, unparalleled love for his family, and faith in our God will forever guide us through times of joy and sorrow, finding light in the dark and turning tears to smiles.
A private graveside service will honor his magnificent life and everlasting legacy.