Mary Regina Sullivan, age 91, a resident of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, peacefully passed away on January 15, 2026. Known to most as Mary Jeanne, she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, leaving a legacy of love and cherished memories.
Mary Jeanne was born on March 2,1934, and raised in Newton, Massachusetts. She was the daughter of Oswald and Regina (Mallen) Getzfread. She graduated from Regis College in 1956 and went on to make a difference as an elementary school teacher for many years. Her passion for education, books and learning shone brightly through her teaching and interactions with others.
Throughout her life, Mary Jeanne called different places home, from Massachusetts to St Croix, USVI, before settling in Florida in 1981. She spent the last 30 years in New Smyrna Beach, a place she loved deeply. She cherished the time spent at the beach, especially if she was with her children and grandchildren.
Mary Jeanne had a talent for baking and delighted in sharing her sweet creations with family and friends. She was famous for her many Christmas cookies, blueberry muffins and lemon meringue pie. She loved entertaining and her St. Patrick's Day parties, hosted alongside her late husband John, were a highlight each year. She also enjoyed the fun and camaraderie she had with her friends during their weekly bridge games.
She was the beloved wife of the late John J. Sullivan, with whom she shared 58 years of marriage. She leaves behind her children: Moira Melaugh and her husband John of Medfield, Massachusetts; Sean Sullivan and his wife Ann of Branchburg, New Jersey; and Mark Sullivan and his wife Linda of Hernando Beach, Florida. Mary Jeanne is also survived by her six cherished grandchildren and two great grandchildren, whom she adored.
Mary Jeanne will be remembered for her kindness, love for family, strong Catholic faith and the joy she brought to those around her. She will be deeply missed.
A funeral mass will be held at St Cecilia Church in Boston, Massachusetts, on Friday, February 27 at 11:00 am.
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