Paul Sullivan Obituary, Cause of Death – Peterborough Community Remembers a Life of Public Service and Family
Paul Edward Sullivan Dies Unexpectedly at 72
Paul Edward Sullivan, 72, of Peterborough, New Hampshire, passed away unexpectedly on August 31, 2026. Born on November 3, 1953, in Lynn, Massachusetts, Paul was the son of Edward and Gloria Sullivan.
Remembered for his warmth, humor, generosity, and devotion to his family, Paul touched many lives through his career in public service, his involvement in local activities, and the countless ways he supported those around him.
Cause of Death
Paul Sullivan’s death was described as unexpected. The information provided by his family does not disclose a specific cause of death.
No additional medical details or circumstances surrounding his passing were included in the available obituary information.
Early Life and Education
Paul was raised in Lynn, Massachusetts, where he attended and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. He later earned a degree in criminal justice from Northeastern University.
In 1979, Paul married Kathy Dalferro, who was also from Lynn. The couple subsequently moved to Fairfax, Virginia, before eventually making Peterborough, New Hampshire, their longtime home.
Paul lived in Peterborough for the final 44 years of his life.
Career in Public Service
Paul dedicated much of his professional life to government and public service. His career began with the State Department’s Foreign Service in Washington, D.C.
During his work with the government, he traveled extensively while accompanying U.S. secretaries of state and foreign dignitaries. His career reflected a longstanding commitment to public service and took him to many parts of the world.
Even after moving to Peterborough, Paul continued working with the government before eventually retiring.
A Constant Presence for His Family
For Paul, family was at the center of his life. In Peterborough, he became a familiar presence at his children's activities, often serving as a self-appointed—and sometimes official—assistant coach.
He supported his children across a wide range of activities, including recreational softball, golf, and swimming. He also worked as an umpire and was known for his generous strike zone and enthusiastic encouragement of players.
Paul enjoyed teaching his children practical skills as well, from unhooking a fish to learning how to drive safely during high-speed pursuits.
Passion for Fly Fishing and Community Life
Paul developed a deep passion for fly fishing and became an important part of the Peterborough Fly Fishing Club. He served as the club's president for 17 years, dedicating significant time and energy to the organization.
Retirement also gave Paul opportunities to pursue some of his more distinctive interests. He became a neighborhood authority on pellet stoves and was always willing to explain the finer points of wood pellets to anyone within earshot.
For approximately a decade, he also served as a Google Product Expert.
Through his many interests and activities, Paul remained known for his unmistakable Lynn accent, quick wit, and sly sense of humor.
Family and Survivors
Paul is survived by his wife, Kathy, as well as his younger siblings, Phil, Jeanne, and Jenifer.
His surviving children and their spouses include:
- Elizabeth Sullivan-Zager and her husband, Russell, of Redwood City, California
- Emily Sullivan West and her husband, Ian, of Concord, New Hampshire
- Robert Sullivan and his wife, Brooke, of Dublin, New Hampshire
Paul was also a beloved grandfather to Cooper and Callaway Zager and Violet and Robbianne West.
His family remembered him as someone whose life revolved around the people he loved and who brought warmth to those around him.
Memorial Services for Paul Sullivan
Visiting hours are scheduled for Friday, September 11, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Jellison Funeral Home, located at 25 Concord Street in Peterborough, New Hampshire.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, September 12, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Divine Mercy Parish, 12 Church Street, Peterborough, New Hampshire.
The family has asked that, instead of sending flowers, people honor Paul's memory by doing something generous for someone in need, reflecting the generosity he showed during his life.
Donations may also be made to the Peterborough Fire and Rescue Association.
Remembering Paul Sullivan
Paul Sullivan leaves behind a legacy shaped by family, public service, community involvement, generosity, and humor. From his years in government to his time coaching from the sidelines, umpiring local games, leading the fly fishing club, and helping those around him, he remained actively connected to the people and community he cared about.
His family, friends, and the Peterborough community will remember him for the warmth and personality he brought to everyday life.
Information Disclaimer
This article is based solely on the obituary and memorial information provided. The specific cause of Paul Sullivan's death was not disclosed in the supplied information. No unverified cause, medical condition, or circumstances surrounding his passing have been added.