Marcia J. Sullivan

“A great teacher is like a candle—it consumes itself to light the way for others.” (Mustafa Kemal Ataturk) Marcia Jane Sullivan taught her final and most important lesson, surrounded by her loving family and faithful friends, as she peacefully ended a courageous battle with cancer. Over the course of the last three years, she calmly and quietly demonstrated the power of determination, optimism, bravery and faith for all those privileged to accompany her on this journey. Marcia was born on November 27, 1953 in Massena, NY. She is predeceased by her much-loved parents, Gabe and Pearl Sullivan and her brother, David Sullivan. Marcia is survived by her adoring sisters, Kathy Tajeu and Tricia Huber (Jim), a dear brother, Tom Sullivan (Ginny), a sister-in-law, Denise O’Brien and her beloved niece and nephews. She is also survived by her devoted and loyal friend, Caroline Merritt. Marcia’s warm spirit and caring nature embraced all she met; students, colleagues and especially those honored to be called her friend. Marcia began her career in education by earning a BS at SUNY Brockport and a M.Ed. at St. Lawrence University. She went on to receive a MA at Eastern Carolina University. She joined the faculty at SUNY Potsdam and then served as Professor of Physical Education, softball coach and academic counselor during her 30 years at Columbia-Greene Community College, from 1982-2012. Marcia’s patience, persistence and compassion for others enabled her to become a highly esteemed and revered educator. She was awarded the President’s Award-Faculty-2012, 1988 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching and NYS Governor’s Award for Outstanding Health Educator in 1987. During her tenure she served as Faculty Council Chair, Co-Chair of the Middle States Accreditation and was actively involved in many college committees. She was honored with the title of Professor Emeritus by CGCC Board of Trustees. She was also a long-term, active member of Alpha Nu Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, an international professional society of women educators. Marcia saved multiple lives through her knowledge, application and training in CPR and first-aid. She was a mentor to hundreds of people over the years and earned the respect and admiration of countless students and contemporaries. Marcia’s nurturing abilities weren’t reserved only for family and friends. Some of her favorite companions were known to have paws, whiskers, fur, feathers and hooves. As a young child and throughout adulthood, she was devoted to all animals’ well being. Her outstanding dedication to the support and purpose of the Columbia-Greene Humane Society was honored with the Bilinski Award in 2020. She fostered, found homes for and adopted many dogs and cats. Some of the beneficiaries of her unconditional love were her special cat, “Just Jack” and his best friend, a dog named “Sophie.” Contributions in Marcia’s memory can be made to: Columbia-Greene Humane Society, 111 Humane Society Road, Hudson, NY 12534. In keeping with Marcia’s wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral services. We may celebrate Marcia’s life by proving we have learned her lessons well. We will keep her candle burning brightly and honor her servant heart by doing our best to carry on with determination, optimism, bravery and faith.

Marcia J. Sullivan

November 27, 1953 - September 28, 2022

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Marcia J. Sullivan

November 27, 1953 - September 28, 2022

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