James W. Sullinger

James W. Sullinger, 87, of Indiana, passed away Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2024, at his home.

A son of the late Edgar and Edna Sullinger, Jim was born March 24, 1937.

After graduating from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Jim began his career teaching music in Cambridge Springs, PA. Earning a Master’s Degree, he then taught for over 30 years at Indiana Area School District, first at Indiana Junior High School, heading up the orchestra, Pop Ensemble and yearly musicals. Early in his career, Jim also was a coach for the basketball team and refereed games. He then moved to Ben Franklin Elementary School, introducing instrumental music to younger students. Jim completed his career at the Volusia County School District in Port Orange, Fla., a highlight there being forming a steel drum band with the elementary school students. 

Jim loved horses from a young age, and began racing Standardbred (harness) horses in his teens, continuing into his late 70’s. As a member of the U.S. Trotting Association, Jim spent summers racing at Pennsylvania county fairs, especially enjoying the Indiana County Fair. He continued throughout the year, racing at The Meadows and other parimutuel tracks in PA, OH, NY, VA, MD and FL.

Jim was always optimistic and willing to help others. He enjoyed traveling, especially to the westers US.

Jim is survived by his significant other, Patricia Ryan, of Indiana; four children: Sherri Hoe (Doug), of Derry Township; Michael Sullinger (Kelly), of Canonsburg; Jami Sullinger, of Penn Run; Kenda Sullinger (Claudio LaGamba), of New Smyrna Beach, Fla.; two grandchildren: Danine Sullinger (Alex Bates), of Coraopolis and Alyssa Sullinger, of Munhall; two great-grandchildren: Fallon Bates and Finley Bates, of Coraopolis; a brother, Glenn Sullinger, of Vale, NC; and two beloved horses, Jami The Great and Sweet Jois.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at the Elks, 475 S. 13th Street, Indiana, on Nov. 23, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, for family, friends and those whose lives were touched by Jim.

Robinson-Lytle-Shoemaker Funeral Home, 36 N 7th Street, Indiana, has been entrusted with the arrangements.