Fannie Mae Sullivan

Celebrating the Life of Fannie Sullivan

Fannie Mae Green started her “Journey of Life” on December 8, 1930, in Idabel, OK. She was the eighth of eleven children born to Jackson and Fannie Green, from OK and AR, respectively. In the 1940’s, Fannie’s family relocated to Fresno, CA, where she attended Edison High School. In 1947, she met and married John Shepard, and from their union, three loving children were created. 

Fannie later remarried to one of the Bay Area’s entrepreneurs, Charles Sullivan, in 1959. She worked by his side in various business affairs, including Music Promotion which included names such as; Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, James Brown, The Temptations, and many more. Fannie enjoyed sports; fishing, golf, the 49ers, and was frequently seated behind home plate at the Giants games. Charles preceded her death in 1966. Shortly after his demise, Fannie opened the Sportsman Inn, a cocktail lounge in SF, and she continued to raise her children as a single mom. Fannie enjoyed gatherings with her family and friends. She operated her business until she retired years later. 

Fannie was baptized at an early age during her “Journey of Life”. She loved her Lord Jesus Christ and committed herself to serving GOD, those in need, and the church. She came to serve. She unselfishly used her gifts to help prepare and serve food in various San Francisco communities weekly for over 33 years at Glide Memorial, Third Baptist Church, and Jones Memorial United Methodist Church. She was a loyal and faithful member at Jones Memorial United Methodist Church for 50 years, where she served as an usher and volunteered in various church projects until she relocated to Rocklin, CA, to be near her children. She was a true reflection of GOD’S word, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love, serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13) 

Fannie transitioned from earth to glory on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. Fannie’s “Journey of Life” was one filled with grace, humility, elegance, love, and as a servant of God. She touched the lives of many. 

She is predeceased by: her parents Jackson Green Sr., and Fannie Green; her loving husband, Charles Sullivan; sisters Ola White, Ommie Hendrix, Adena Dickson, Zessie Neal; and brothers Jackson (Bubba) Green, Stacey Green, Vonley Green, and Fillmore Green; two sons-in-law, Dr. Donnie Livingston and Prestin Baker. She is survived by: brothers Willie Green (Bertha) and Telosis Green. 

She leaves to cherish precious memories with three children: Doris Shepard Baker (Roseville, CA), Dr. Shirley Livingston (Clayton, CA), and John Shepard III (Denise) (Roseville, CA). Eight grandchildren: Armonn Livingston, Shawn Livingston York, Dawn Livingston, Tanya Shepard, Lolice Perez, John Shepard IV, Damani Baker, and Kai Baker Stringfield. She leaves a host of great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and extended family to whom she has each endeared herself to uniquely Love.