Obituary of Michael-Vaughn Sullivan

June 24, 2026

Michael-Vaughn Sullivan peacefully passed away on June 24, 2026.

Michael was born on October 4, 1959, in Jersey City, New Jersey, where he attended St. Paul of the Cross before moving to Delaware in 1973. He graduated from Christiana High School and attended the University of Delaware before moving to New York City, where he continued his studies at New York University.

It was in New York that Michael found his passion for the performing arts and built a successful career as a professional actor and dancer. A proud member of Actors’ Equity, SAG, and AGVA, his career included the national tour of A Chorus Line, performances at Radio City Music Hall and Super Bowl productions, appearances on Who’s the Boss? and in Bugsy, as well as work with MTV. He also performed as a principal dancer with the Clive Thompson Dance Company and appeared with several respected dance companies throughout the United States and Canada. His love for the theater and performing arts gave him the opportunity to travel, build lifelong friendships, and experience a career he truly loved.

Michael eventually settled in Hell’s Kitchen, where he found a place to call home. He spent more than 30 years in the same apartment building, where neighbors became lifelong friends and the community around him became family.

After his years in the performing arts, Michael began a second career at Soiffer Haskin, where he worked for many years as a floor manager and sales consultant.

Michael could light up any room with his outgoing personality and beautiful smile. He was charming, witty, generous, and funny, and was loved by all who knew him.

Michael was predeceased by his parents, Carol and James Sullivan. He is survived by his brothers, James (Margie), Jeffrey, and William (Beth); his former sister in law, Leeann; his nieces and nephews, Kaitlyn (TJ), Jamie (Brandon), William, Megan (Kyle), and Madison (Chris); his great niece, Allison; his great nephews, James, Santino, and Leo; and many dear friends who will miss him deeply.

The family would like to thank the staff at NYU Langone for their outstanding care. They also extend a special thank you to Wendy, Mark, Peter, Amalia, Leslie, Loriann, and Jordan for their friendship, love, and unwavering support throughout Michael’s life.

Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service on Monday, July 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Crestwood Funeral Home, 445 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036.

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