1932 - 2025
Born on June 13, 1932, in Charleroi, Pennsylvania, Elaine was the daughter of the late Amelia Lutz and Clifford A. Anderson. She spent her early years growing up in Weirton, West Virginia, before settling in New England, where she built a life rooted in community, friendship, and family in Franklin, Massachusetts.
Elaine was admired for her intelligence, warmth, and unwavering kindness. A gifted student, she was valedictorian of her high school and later studied fashion design at Carnegie Mellon University. While raising her children, she worked from home, always balancing her professional talents with her devotion to family.
Over the years, Elaine’s skills and dedication led her to careers as an accomplished seamstress, legal secretary, and executive assistant at Dean College prior to retirement. She had a remarkable ability to make others feel valued and heard, serving as a trusted confidant to many who were fortunate enough to know her.
Elaine shared a deep and joyful partnership with her husband, Robert “Sully” Sullivan. She loved long car rides with her husband, and together they opened their home—and especially their pool—to family and friends. Their greatest happiness came from creating a welcoming space filled with laughter, meals, and meaningful time together.
In December of 1985, while volunteering at The Franklin Food Pantry donating food for those in need that year for the holidays, Elaine and Robert overheard a mother in distress who needed additional help. Moved by compassion, they went above and beyond—delivering gifts dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Claus in a convertible. That day, The Santa Foundation was born, and 40 years later, their legacy continues to provide for others. The Santa Foundation has helped 860 families this year alone.
Elaine’s legacy continues through her family, including daughter Cynthia Timmons and husband Richard, son Jon Mellin, son-in-law Jon Ross, as well as her nine grandchildren Kristin (Kevin), Cameron (Samantha), Fletcher (Courtney), Brendan (Katie), Patrick, Madison, Lockewood, Jonathan, Parker and nine great grandchildren.
She is reunited in peace with Robert Sullivan: husband, Deborah Ross: daughter, Sheri Mellin: daughter-in-law, and Cliff Anderson: brother, Tom Lutz: brother, Amelia Lutz: mother, and Donald Mellin: late husband.
Elaine’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Maples Nursing Home, who prioritized Elaine’s health and happiness during her residency. She especially cherished visits from family and her beloved pets, often enjoying tea, a banana, and occasionally ice cream together in the lobby.
Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Monday, December 29th from 4–6pm at Ginley Funeral Home of Franklin (ginleyfuneralhomes.com) 131 Main Street, Franklin. The family will have a private burial.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to The Santa Foundation or The Franklin Food Pantry, 341 West Central Street, Franklin, MA 02038, in Elaine Sullivan’s name.
