FDNY Lt. Brian Sullivan Remembered As Hero, Devoted Family Man At Funeral
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - The New York Fire Department said goodbye Friday to a 27-year veteran of the force.
Lt. Brian Sullivan died of a heart attack Saturday, leaving behind a wife, two daughters and a city grateful for his service. It happened after he worked a 24-hour shift, leading his squad on seven calls including a working fire.
He was just 54.
Watch: Funeral for FDNY Lt. Brian Sullivan, Part 1
Firefighters hoisted an American flag over Route 17 honoring Sullivan as hundreds of firefighters lined the streets surrounding Sacred Heart parish.
His casket was draped in the flag of the department he loved and served for 27 years.
"Even though he was in pain on that last tour, he continued to respond to calls seflessly," Mayor Bill de Blasio said.
"Here we are today in Monroe, New York and we probably have 7,000 firefighters, fire officers paying ultimate respect to our fallen brother," said Jake LeMonda.
"Brian carried tremendous responsibilities on broad shoulders, always set an example, and always had a smile on his face," said Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro.
Mourners described Lt. Sullivan as one of the best people you could have the honor of knowing, reported CBSN New York's Jessica Moore. He was eulogized as "life giving, joyful and friendly with every person he met and encountered."
PHOTOS: Remembering Lt. Brian Sullivan
A sea of firefighters saluted Lt. Sullivan's flag-draped casket, followed by his wife Irene and daughters Nicole and Samantha.
His three brothers stood together as his brother Daniel paid tribute.
"We know him for his work ethic, infectious laughter, radiance walking into a room," said his brother Daniel Sullivan.
Those who knew him best say family was his priority.
Pride mixed with pain as Irene, Nicole and Samantha accepted mementos, including Sullivan's fire helmet and were saluted, CBS2's Tony Aiello reported.
Earlier, Samantha was a picture of composure as she delivered the second reading.
Watch: Funeral for FDNY Lt. Brian Sullivan, Part 2
"As a fireman, he was known as a family man who always talked about you, Nicole and Samantha, and how proud he was of each of you, and how he was looking forward after the shift to come home to be with you and your mom. Firefighters said he wouldn't linger long at the firehouse, or even many times not go to an event, he would rather go home to be with you," said FDNY chaplain Fr. Christopher Keenan.
"All of New York City mourns today because we've lost such a good man. We've lost a hero. Lt. Brian Sullivan. He truly represents the best of us," said de Blasio. "Brave. Dedicated. Always putting others before himself."
The 54-year-old died of a heart attack early Saturday morning following a 24-hour shift, during which Sullivan responded to seven emergencies and a kitchen fire.
The FDNY says Lt. Sullivan complained of chest pain Friday night but just kept working. Hours later, he died at Orange County Regional Medical Center.
Lt. Scott Altman worked along Lt. Sullivan at Squad Company 41 in the Bronx.
"We were always his number one priority at work. With Brian's encouragement and support, he pushed me towards taking the lieutenant test for promotion. As I traveled around the city as a new lieutenant, more often than not, whichever firehouse I'd go to for the day, the first question I'd get is 'Where'd you work, Lou?' I'd answer 'Squad 41.' And they'd say 'How's Sully and how's the tiki bar?'" said Altman. "Sully, as we called him around the firehouse, was larger than life. He had a personality that would truly light up a room. His positivity, encouragement and laugh would turn a tough day into a shift that we could walk away from feeling proud."
"Each person present here today knows how much of an impact my brother had, both in life and in death," said his brother Daniel. "It is apparent that Brian's infectious energy has made an impact on so many."
A father, husband, brother, hero who served the city until the very end. He spent half his life in one of the most stressful jobs imaginable. He saved and touched countless lives, and his city will be forever grateful for his service.
Researchers say cardiac events are responsible for about 45% of annual firefighter line-of-duty deaths. Smoke, checmicals, interrupted sleep and physical toil all contribute to heart issues.
The FDNY Foundation is accepting donations to help pay for the college education for the Sullivan daughters. To make a donation, click here.
