Wanda Sullivan
Granite City | Save
Wanda Maxine “Max” Sullivan, age 89, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.
Born on December 17, 1936, in Ellsinore, Missouri, Max was the cherished daughter of the late Rev. Harry W. Chronister Sr. and Violet Bernice (Bowman) Chronister. She carried with her throughout life the strong faith, kindness, and resilience instilled in her from a young age.
In 1969, she married Harold Sullivan. Together they built a life grounded in devotion and family until his passing in 2005. Their bond was one of steady love and partnership.
Max retired in 1997 from McDonnell-Douglas Corporation, where she worked for many dedicated years as an inspector. She took pride in her work and the friendships she built along the way.
She had a tender heart for animals and found joy in life’s simple pleasures. Max loved taking road trips, exploring new places with curiosity and enthusiasm. She enjoyed sewing, collecting books, and losing herself in a good story. Her laughter was warm and contagious, and her love for life was evident to all who knew her.
Above all, Max’s greatest treasure was her family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Time spent surrounded by her loved ones brought her the deepest happiness. Her strength, humor, and unwavering love created a legacy that will continue for generations.
In addition to her parents and beloved husband, Max was preceded in death by her siblings: Mildred Browning, Sharon Johnson, Shirley Gausepohl, Charles Chronister Sr., Joseph Chronister, and Robert Chronister.
She leaves behind her loving son, Edward (Sheri) Sullivan of Jerseyville, Illinois; her dear siblings, Pamela (Jim) Smith, Carol Mifflin, and Rev. Harry “Butch” (Connie) Chronister Jr.; fourteen cherished grandchildren; two precious great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.
A visitation to celebrate Max’s life will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 5, 2026, with funeral services following at 11:00 a.m., officiated by her nephew, Pastor Charles Browning Jr.. She will be laid to rest at Rose Lawn Memory Gardens in Bethalto, Illinois.
Max lived with love, laughter, and grace. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
