Dr. Charles William Sullivan, age 88, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at his residence in Knoxville, TN. He was born on November 15, 1930 in Clever, MO to Charles and Pearl Sullivan as their only Child. Dr. Sullivan was a faithful servant of God. He graduated from Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, MO and earned his masters degree from Baylor University in Waco, TX. He then graduated from the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Fort Worth,
TX in 1961 with his Doctorate in Theology. His divine calling made his life's work the proclamation of the Gospel and the teaching of Jesus Christ by proclaiming his faith for over 62 years. His pastorate began at the age of 19 in Mound, TX. Then continuing on to Crawford, Mansfield, Wills Point, Arlington, and Port Arthur, TX. As well as Mexico, MO, Chickasha, OK, Memphis and Lenoir City, TN. During his career he served as Chairman of the Executive Director of the State Convention of Baptist in Indiana. He also served on the Board of Directors for Union University in Jackson, TN. He was honored to be invited to preach and proclaim our Lord on every continent and in over 21 countries.
Dr. Sullivan leaves behind his loving wife of 68 years, Velma Hazel "Delilah" Sullivan. His devotion and love to her was evident to everyone whose path they crossed. They were married on May 5, 1950 and together raised three lovely children. Those children and their spouses are Cynthia Chyrel Little and husband Don of Tulsa, OK, Charles David Sullivan and wife Tommie of Phoenix, AZ and Charles Stephen Sullivan and wife Debbie of Castlewood, VA. He was also a loving grandfather to his grandchildren, Lexi Methvin, Corbin Methvin, Heather King, Charlie Sullivan, Tyson Sullivan, Taylar Wallace and to his great-grandchildren, Lila Methvin, Nolan Methvin, Cecelia Methvin, AnnElise King, Langston King and Beckett Wallace.
Dr. Sullivan loved his family deeply. He enjoyed playing hymns on the piano at family gatherings and shopping for gifts for others. He loved spending time planning daily meals, giving others nicknames and teasing. He was always finding special occasions to get together and celebrate with his family. He was a great leader and natural administrator. Dr. Sullivan was an example to his family, his church and his community for his faithfulness, generosity and love for Jesus Christ, our Savior. His life verse was Mark 10:27 - And Jesus looking upon them saith, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible." His steadfast devotion positively impacted the lives of thousands.
The Sullivan family will receive friends for visitation on Saturday, December 1, 2018 from 1:00 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Sevier Heights Baptist Church. Funeral services will follow at 2:30 p.m. at the church with Dr. Hollie Miller officiating. Dr. John Yeats will conduct the internment and graveside services on Monday, December 3, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. White Chapel Memorial Gardens in Springfield, MO. A visitation will be held on Monday, Dec 3, 2018 from 10-12 pm at Klingner-Cope Family Funeral Home at White Chapel (5234 W. State Highway EE Springfield, MO 65802).Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's or Samaritan's Purse in memory of Dr. Sullivan. Click Funeral Home, Lenoir City is in charge of arrangements