Barbara Sullivan

Barbara Jeanne Sullivan, 77, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday September 5, 2021. Barb was born on October 31, 1943, in Rockford to Stanley and Apolonia “Polly” (Makulec) Dzielak. Barb attended East High School in Rockford. On March 25, 1961, Barb married her best friend, Jeremiah “Jerry” Sullivan. Through the years, she was a daycare provider, a garden specialist at Lowe’s, and even opened Sullivan’s Landscaping with her husband, Jerry. She was an avid gardener in her career, and her personal life. One of her proudest moments was becoming a published writer in the Midwest Living Garden Book. Barb also enjoyed reading. She had a special love for her grandchildren, making it a priority to attend all sporting events. Barb also spent much time making blankets for numerous friends and family members, now precious heirlooms. Barb is survived by her children, Amy (Ron) Truninger, Kelley Walker, Jeremiah “Jay” (Fiance, Karen Lucas) Sullivan, Dan (Suzie) Sullivan; grandchildren, Nick (Jen) Sullivan, Zack (Katie) Truninger, Matt Truninger, Jacob Walker, Kaitlyn Truninger, Hannah (Derek Rhodes) Walker, Benny Walker, Lexi Sullivan, and Payton Sullivan; great-grandchildren, Zoey, Selena , and Maiya Walker, Charlotte Truninger, Baby Boy Truninger in February 2022 (who great-grandma rooted for as “Team Boy”) and Raelynn Rhodes; brother, George (Meg) Jelak; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Barb was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; parents, Stanley and Polly; sister, Joanne (John) Schleicher, mother-in-law, Bea Sullivan. A graveside service for Barb will take place on Saturday, September 25, 2021, 10:30 A.M. at Arlington Cemetery, 6202 Charles Street, Rockford, Illinois, 61108. A luncheon to celebrate Barb’s life will continue at Gerry’s Pizza, 7403 Argus Drive, Rockford, Illinois 61107. Memorials may be given to the family. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 712 Windsor Road, Loves Park, Illinois 61111.