In Memoriam: Timothy Francis Sullivan

Timothy Francis Sullivan, a long-standing faculty member and Department Chairperson of Exercise Science and Physical Education, passed away on Saturday, September 28, 2019 after a lengthy illness.

Tim enjoyed more than 40 years as a highly successful teacher, administrator, and coach at Montclair State University, and during that time was recognized for his extensive work supporting individuals with disabilities.

Tim Sullivan taught at Montclair from 1967 until his retirement in 2008. For 15 years, he served as the chair of the Department of Health Professions, Physical Education, Recreation and Leisure Studies. He also was Montclair’s head wrestling coach from 1967-72, with a 43-27 overall record, and the men’s lacrosse head coach from 1984-87. In addition, he was a football assistant coach from 1967-73. He served as offensive line coach when Montclair won the 1970 Knute Rockne Bowl for the NCAA Division II “East” national title.

He directed the Special Olympics of New Jersey from 1974-76 and was inducted into the New Jersey Special Olympics Hall of Fame in 2008. He also directed Montclair State’s Special Needs Aquatic Program from 1975-2007 and the school’s Saturday Afternoon Special Activities Program, designed to meet the physical activity needs of children with developmental disabilities ages 6-18, from 1975-2004.

Tim was a dear friend and colleague. He was a valuable mentor to students and faculty alike, had a true passion for the field of adapted physical education, and was well known for his ability to solve problems and come up with a “Plan B” when unforeseen circumstances arose. His optimistic and upbeat approach to life and friendship will be deeply missed.

A celebration of Tim Sullivan’s life will be held on Saturday, October 5^th. An informal, outdoor gathering will take place from 3 – 8 p.m. at the home of Tim’s daughter, Ginny Moriarity, 412 Ridgewood Ave, Glen Ridge, NJ. At 5:00 p.m. friends and family will be invited to share memories and tributes to Tim.