In Memory of James Scott Sullivan

Obituary

James Scott Sullivan, affectionately called “Smallz” amongst those who closely knew him, passed away April 6th, 2026 at the age of 50. He fought a long and courageous battle with kidney disease and was recently diagnosed with Huntington's Disease. 

Jim is survived by his wife Rachel Zema-Sullivan of Penn Yan, NY (adopted kitty Abbey Marie); his daughters Alexis Sullivan (Richmond Pratt VI) of Bath, NY, Nevaeh Sullivan (Chris LaBreck) of Bath, NY; father Dwight Reeves (Susan) of Ocean Isle Beach, NC; sister Jessica Sullivan of Savona, NY; Brothers Joshua Reeves (Katherine) NC, Caleb Reeves (Abby) SC, Benjamin Reeves NC; grandchildren Aubree and Ricky also known as “Seven”; in-laws Christopher and Marlissa of Lansing, NY, brother-in-law Jason Zema (Jordan) of VA; and sister-in-law Amanda (Mace) Sullivan of Horseheads, NY.  

He was predeceased by his mother Cynthia Sullivan and brother Joseph Sullivan, who both passed from Huntington's Disease.

Jim was born on February 11,1976 in Corning NY. He grew up in Avoca, NY where he met many life long friends. Jim had very fond memories of time spent in Ocean Isle Beach with his extended family. Jim lived quite a fun and colorful life, until the very end. For the past 13 years, he worked at World Kitchen (Corelle Brands) in Corning, NY. He enjoyed fishing, eating good food, had a love-hate relationship with the Dallas Cowboys and was up for any adventure his wife might drag him on. A transformative period of his life was spent with the Teen Challenge chapter of Rehrersburg, PA, whom he credited, time and again, with gratefulness, for giving him another opportunity at life and helping to guide his strong relationship with his Lord and Savior.

Jim’s greatest success was the steadfast love he had for his wife, his children and his great joy being a grandpa. Even though his time was short, he leaves behind a legacy of what it is to be, a true friend, partner, father, grandpa, person of faith and just overall good human being. He will be missed by so many, who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at the Howard Union Church in Hornell, NY on May16th, 2026 at 11am.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating in Jim’s memory to the Huntington's Disease Foundation :hdfoundation.org, the National Kidney Foundation: support.kidney.org or to Adult & Teen Challenge of Pennsylvania: paatc.org.