Terry Wade Sullivan, 82, of Valley Falls, Kansas died on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at F.W. Huston Senior Living Center in Winchester, KS, under the care of Hospice of Jefferson County as a result of the lung condition bronchiectasis. He was born February 8, 1942, in Valley Falls, the first-born son of John Richard and Dorothy (Laird) Sullivan.

Terry graduated from Valley Falls High School in 1960 and attended Wichita State University and Emporia State University.

Terry lived in the Valley Falls community for most of his life. He owned and operated Sullivan Plumbing, Heating and Electrical, taking over the business from his father when he retired. He cherished his life-long friends and customers in the community. He also served in Valley Falls city government and was very active in local politics. He was a member of the Rotary, Jefferson County Democrats, and served as Mayor and on the City Counsel during his life.

As a life-long learner, Terry was a self-taught computer programmer, gardener and woodworker. He was passionate about the environment. His other vast number of hobbies included birdwatching, reading, and writing. Terry was an extraordinary artist and enjoyed drawing until his death.

He married Sondra Walker on April 11, 1968, in Wichita, KS. They would have celebrated 55 years together. They had twin girls, Presha and Camille, who survive. Presha Emmert (Brock) of Alma, KS is the mother of Terry's granddaughter Cecelia who is currently a sophomore at Kansas State University in Manhattan, KS. Camille Sullivan resides in Parkville, MO with her significant other Jay Stevens.

Other survivors include sister, Linda Clawson of Topeka, KS; brothers Fred Sullivan of Valley Falls, KS; and Don Sullivan (Carolyn) of Leawood, KS. Terry also had many nieces and nephews who were very special to him and he enjoyed sharing his knowledge and skills with them.

There will not be any formal services as the immediate family is abiding by his request. The family is planning a Tree Dedication Celebration which will be held in Valley Falls for the family and community at a later date. Memorials can be given to the Kansas Audubon Society (www.audubonofkansas.org) or City of Valley Falls (Designated for Tree Dedication) c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.