James “Jim” Robert Sullivan, age 84, of Eagan, Minnesota, passed away on May 17, 2024. He leaves a profound legacy of faith and a lifelong commitment to humanitarian service that extended across continents. Jim’s life is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. His favorite scripture, Psalm 1:1–3, beautifully encapsulates his journey, illustrating a life that, although filled with challenges, was deeply rooted in faith and enriched by his service to others.
Jim was born on July 3, 1939, in Chicago and grew up on the South Side in an Irish immigrant community. Like many families of that time, his faced significant challenges. His mother, Mildred (Langdon) Sullivan, worked three jobs to support the family, often leaving Jim, the youngest by 16 years, on his own. After she remarried, his stepfather, John Scholl, a railroad worker, was frequently away for work, and Jim continued to spend much of his time alone. He attended Wentworth Elementary School and later a vocational high school.
During his formative years, Jim struggled to find purpose. A turning point came through his relationship with Dr. Carry, a city-employed surgeon who recognized Jim’s potential. Dr. Carry often hired Jim as a driver during his rounds to police stations and holding cells, using that time to offer guidance and have frank conversations about the consequences of Jim’s path.
Seeking discipline and a fresh start, Jim enlisted in the Navy in February 1959. The experience instilled structure, though he continued searching for deeper meaning. After returning to Chicago, he worked in the restaurant industry as a troubleshooter. It was during this time that he met Kathy Hollingsworth, who would become his wife. They were married on December 14, 1973.
Jim experienced a profound transformation in his faith during his marriage, which led him to pursue theological studies. He earned degrees from Moody Bible Institute and a Master of Divinity from Trinity University in Deerfield. His faith guided him into pastoral work, where he spent 35 years serving others and teaching the message of Christ.
During this period, Jim and Kathy became directors of Child Evangelism Fellowship® (CEF) of Illinois, where both served as acting directors and teacher-trainers. Jim resigned from that role in 1988 and soon began serving as a youth pastor at Naperville Congregational Church in Naperville, Illinois. There, he led youth groups and organized mission trips to places like New Mexico and Colorado. Through these experiences, Jim discovered a deep joy in service and instilled in young people the importance of compassion and care, leaving a lasting impact during his five years there.
In 1992, Jim accepted a call to serve as lead pastor at First Congregational Church in Buffalo Center, Iowa, where he remained as the church stabilized. He later moved into his final pastoral role at Church of Peace in Norwood Young America, Minnesota.
Jim’s calling expanded globally in 2006 when he first traveled to Ghana, West Africa. Deeply moved by what he saw, he founded Operation Dignity International (ODI) in 2007. His work in Ghana focused on alleviating poverty, building relationships, and sharing his faith. Under his leadership, ODI introduced medical and dental teams to underserved areas and established educational initiatives, creating both immediate relief and lasting change in health and education systems. His dedication transformed countless lives.
Despite his impact, Jim remained humble, often wrestling with reconciling his past with his calling. An avid student of theology, he spent years studying scripture and praying for wisdom, which became one of his defining qualities.
Outside of ministry, Jim loved movies. He cherished the experience of going to the theater with popcorn and a soda, whether alone or with others. On a recent trip to Los Angeles, he visited Hollywood to take photos with the stars honoring his favorite actors, including Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, and John Wayne. While he enjoyed many genres, he had a special love for classic Westerns.
Jim is survived by his wife, Kathy (Hollingsworth) Sullivan, who continues to lead ODI; his children, Robert (Maria) Rogers, Maurica Jo Baker, Coleen (Jonny) Diggs, Robbie (Joel) Danko, Jamie (Matt Shaw) Paige, James Sullivan Jr., Marquesha Tolson, and Izaiah Sullivan; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Maurice John Sullivan and Mildred Leona (Langdon) Scholl; his stepfather, John Scholl; and his siblings, Levina, Helen Lathrop, Francis, Gerald, and Maurice Jr.
A service celebrating Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, June 8, at Easter Lutheran Church. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by the service at 11 a.m. The service will also be livestreamed beginning 10 minutes prior at: https://www.youtube.com/live/4YWfNGP5HRE
A luncheon will follow at 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Operation Dignity International, an organization close to Jim’s heart.
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