COLEBROOK — James Lawrence Sullivan was born on Feb. 18, 1936, in Winsted, Connecticut, to John Sullivan, who immigrated from England, and Emma Isabelle Sullivan, who immigrated from Canada. James was a first-generation American who carried his family roots with pride. He grew up alongside his brother, John Sullivan, and went on to build a life that reflected the values of hard work, independence, and family.
James attended Oliver Wolcott School and proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. After completing his military service, he began his career with C. H. Nickerson Construction Company, where he worked as a foreman. A tough, hardworking carpenter by trade, James was a skilled craftsman who took great pride in working with his hands. He was never one to sit still and always seemed to have another project going. He could build just about anything, and perhaps his greatest accomplishment was building his own home from the ground up in Colebrook, Connecticut. That home became more than a structure; it became the heart of his family’s memories and a lasting part of his legacy.
James was happiest outdoors. A true outdoorsman, he had a lifelong love of trapping, fishing, and farming. He especially enjoyed the winter months checking his trap lines. Trapping was a passion he loved sharing with his family, and he took pride in teaching his son and grandson the skills and traditions of trapping, passing along knowledge that will live on for generations.
His farm and all its animals held a special place in his heart. He especially loved his very first cow, Elizabeth, who would always hold a special place in his memories. The farm was more than land and animals to James; it was a way of life and a source of happiness. He was also a lifelong member of the NTA, CTA, and NRA, organizations that reflected his longstanding interests and passions.
Above all, James valued his family. He married Barbara Thiery on June 27, 1957, and together they shared 72 years of love, companionship, and memories. Their life together was built on commitment, family, and the many experiences they shared throughout the years.
James leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara; his three children, Gail Sullivan, Michael Sullivan, and Michele Sullivan; and his two grandsons, Nicholas Sullivan and Mitchell Sullivan.
James will be remembered as a tough, hardworking, independent man who knew the value of an honest day’s work. He was a carpenter, a farmer, an outdoorsman, and a devoted family man. He built more than a home; he built a life, a family, and a legacy that will carry on through the generations. His hands built the house, worked the land, cared for his animals, and followed the trap lines. But perhaps his greatest legacy is the knowledge, traditions, stories, and love he passed down to his family.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by those who knew and loved him.
May he rest in peace.
A Celebration of James’s Life
Family and friends are invited to gather for a remembrance of James on Nov. 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Norbrook Brewery.
All who knew and loved James are welcome to join in sharing stories, memories, and celebrating a life well lived.
The Kenny Funeral Home has care of arrangements.
An oyster, snoopy, and the Michelin man pause at the corner of Church and Reservoir drive in Millbrook amid a night of trick-or-treating.Photo by Santi Slade
