Stephen R. Sullivan, “Coach, Sully, Spike,” passed away peacefully at Branford Hospice on July 12 with family by his side. Stephen was born on Jan. 13, 1951, in Concord, Massachusetts, and then spent much of his childhood and adult life as a resident of Guilford and, more recently, in Killingworth. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Rita Sullivan; as well as his three siblings, Tom, Bobby, and Terry Sullivan.

Steve graduated from Guilford High School in 1969. After retirement from the United States Postal Service in 2004, he pursued his real passion and true gift, which was coaching. He was the dedicated soccer coach and mentor to many student-athletes along the Connecticut shoreline and spent nearly half a century pursuing his passion for coaching soccer and, more recently, softball. The outpouring of love and emotion from his current and previous players has been a true testament to the everlasting impact he made during his coaching career. Steve looked for the best in his young athletes, held them accountable, lifted them up, and believed in them. He wanted them all to know how proud he was of their accomplishments and how much he loved being their coach. For the past two years, he also worked at Joel Elementary School in Clinton, where he was a recess aide. He really loved being with all of his friends at Joel. In his final days, he was comforted by sharing stories about all the happy times he spent there.

Steve was a loving brother-in-law; and a friend to so many who will miss him dearly. He was a proud uncle to his nieces and nephews. They will carry his invaluable life lessons with them and never forget his love.

The care and comfort that Steve gave to others throughout his lifetime was returned to him by the many tender and loving caregivers at Yale New Haven Hospital and Connecticut Hospice. Steve and his family would like to express their deepest gratitude for the exceptional care and guidance in his final days.

He often shared a weekly motivational message with his players to inspire them to be their best. He wanted to leave them with this final quote: “Play hard. Have fun. Be kind.” Coach Sully.

Friends are invited to calling hours from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, at the Guilford Funeral Home, 115 Church Street, Guilford. Burial will be private. All are invited to attend a Celebration of Life in Steve’s honor from 2 to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5, at Indian River Recreation Complex, 201 Killingworth Tpke., Clinton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Friends of Joel c/o The Joel School, 137A Glenwood Road,Clinton, CT 06413. To share a memory or leave condolences, visit www.guilfordfuneralhome.com.