John Riley Sullivan, 76, passed away on January 2, 2026.

John Riley Sullivan, 76, of Cassville, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family and an abundance of love.

Born June 24, 1949, in Jefferson City, Missouri, John was the youngest of three children born to Raymond and Melba (Farwell) Sullivan. From an early age, his generous spirit and willingness to help anyone in need made him a blessing to all who knew him. After graduating from Cassville High School in 1967, John worked for Gambles, Contel, and Barry Electric before proudly establishing his own extermination and catering businesses.
On March 21, 1982, at the First Christian Church in Cassville, John married the love of his life, Janet (Peterson) Sullivan. Together, they built a beautiful family and were blessed with two children, Shelly Beel and Brian McCarthy. John later welcomed four grandchildren—Ryleigh and Hailey Beel, and Maren and Mace McCarthy—who became the greatest joys of his life.

A man of deep faith, John loved the Lord wholeheartedly and lived his life with God at the center. He was a devoted lifelong member of the First Christian Church of Cassville for 74 years. His commitment to his community was equally steadfast. John served on the Cassville School Board for approximately 30 years, was an active member of the Cassville Chamber of Commerce and contributed his time to the Flat Creek Road District.
John was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Patty Gardner; and her husband, Bob Gardner.

He is survived by his wife, Janet Sullivan of Cassville; his daughter, Shelly Beel, and her husband, Chris, of Blue Springs, Missouri; his son, Brian McCarthy, and his wife, Jacqulyn, of Marshall, Missouri; his sister, Sharon Coker, and her husband, Norman, of Springfield, Missouri; his four beloved grandchildren; as well as numerous sisters‑in‑law, brothers‑in‑law, nieces, nephews, cousins, and thousands of cherished friends and customers.

John was a peacemaker, a steady presence, and a friend to all. His kindness, humor, and unwavering faith will be deeply missed. We aren’t saying goodbye, but instead we hold close some of his favorite parting words— “I’ll catch ya later.”

Memorial services will be held at 10:00 A.M. Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Cassville under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville. Pastor Donnie Spears and Pastor James Weaver will conduct the services. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. Monday, January 5, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Cassville. Memorials may be made to the Sullivan Family in memory of John. 

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FOHN FUNERAL HOME
Cassville, Missouri
417-847-2141