Ronald Gene Sullivan

Funeral services for Ronald Gene "Ron" Sullivan will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Claremore First Baptist Church, followed by burial at Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends are invited to pay their respects at the funeral home on Wednesday, November 8, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with the family receiving visitors from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Ron, 69, was born on February 23, 1954, in Claremore, Oklahoma, to Monroe and Sarah (Reese) Sullivan. He began his schooling in Hulbert and later moved to Wagoner, where he proudly graduated with the Class of 1972. His educational journey continued at at Haskell Indian Junior College on a football scholarship for two years before being recruited by UCO, Arkansas, and Hawaii.  He decided to finish his education and football career at UCO to be closer to his mom.

Following his college years, Ron ventured into the film industry, working alongside his brother James. However, his true calling was coaching. He embarked on his coaching career as a football and tennis coach in Pryor. He later took on the role of basketball and football coach in Salina, followed by a stint as the head football coach in Beggs. His last coaching assignment was in Claremore, where he coached football and tennis until his retirement in 2013.

On July 13, 1996, Ron married Cynthia "Cindy" Diane Kissee, and the couple chose Claremore as their lifelong home. Ron had a deep love for the water, often spending time at the lake on his Sea-Doo or showcasing his culinary talents for his beloved family. He was an avid enthusiast of white-water rafting and a dedicated sports fan, passionately cheering on the OU Sooners and the Dallas Cowboys. However, his most cherished moments were spent with his family. He was a proud father, especially when it came to supporting his son, Spencer, by attending every practice and game. Ron also took immense pride in his Cherokee heritage.

Ron enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, whether it was running errands for Cindy, taking leisurely drives around Claremore, or extending a helping hand to those in need, often without needing to be asked. His strong handshake and warm smile were always inviting, and he made everyone feel valued and heard.
Ron is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Sullivan, his devoted son, Spencer Reese Sullivan, his siblings Monroe Sullivan and wife Betty, Charles Sullivan and wife Gladys, and Louise Gammons, his mother-in-law Frances Kissee, as well as his brother and sister-in-law Steve and Lisa Kissee, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Monroe and Sarah Sullivan, and his brother James Sullivan.

For those who wish to make a memorial contribution in Ron's memory may contribute to the RSU Men's Basketball Foundation, Ron Sullivan Scholarship, at http://www.rsu.edu/give.