Published on October 21, 2025 10:37 am
Last Updated on October 21, 2025 10:37 am
Janelle Marie Sullivan, a cherished soul whose warmth and kindness touched many, passed away at the age of 74 on October 8, 2025, at OC Global Medical Center in Santa Ana, California.
She was born on March 6, 1951, in Michigan, to Thomas and Eileen (Durbin) Hessie. From the beginning of her life, she exuded a spirit of joy and resilience that would define her days.
Her legacy continues through her daughter, Shawna Kunz of Huntington Beach, California, and her adored grandchildren, Kelsea, Katie, and Dakota Kunz, also of Huntington Beach. Janelle’s love and lessons will live on through them, as they carry forward her values and zest for life. She is also survived by her siblings, Thomas (Valerie) Hessie and Shawn (Steve) Roelke of Anaheim, California, her nephew, Kevin Roelke, and her niece, Alexis Roelke.
Preceding Janelle in death were her parents, Thomas and Eileen Hessie, and her former husband, John Frank Sullivan, whom she remained friends with for years. They have now welcomed her into eternal peace, where memories are cherished, and love never fades. Janelle was a beloved mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and proud “Bama” to her grandchildren. She will be remembered for the deep love she had for her family and the joy she found in spending time together, especially during holidays filled with laughter and games. Janelle cherished reading, teaching, and sharing special moments with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed shopping, traveling, and exploring antique stores. Every summer, she looked forward to her time in Beecher City, where she treasured reconnecting with her relatives as well as John’s family. Janelle’s professional life was distinguished by a remarkable 25-year career with GE Telephone Company, where she took great pride in mentoring and training her colleagues. Over the years, they became like an extended family to her, admiring her for her dedication, strong work ethic, and the genuine camaraderie she inspired in the workplace.
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Lockart-Green Funeral Home in Beecher City, Illinois. There will be no visitation. Burial will take place in Oak Grove Cemetery near Cowden, Illinois, where she will be laid to rest with her parents. Family and friends are invited to light a candle or share a story at www.lockartgreenfuneralhome.com.