Governor Dunleavy ordered flags to fly at half-staff between sunrise and sunset on June 24, 2026, in honor of former State Representative Susan Sullivan, who passed away of natural causes at age 79 on June 9, 2026.
“Susan Sullivan served Alaska during a formative time in our state’s history, contributing to important work that helped shape our institutions for future generations. Rose and I extend our condolences to her family and loved ones,” Governor Dunleavy said.
In 1974, Susan made history as the youngest woman elected to the Alaska Legislature. During her service, she chaired the House Health, Education and Social Services Committee and played a key role in shaping landmark education reforms, including the establishment of Regional Educational Attendance Areas. She also co-sponsored House Joint Resolution 39, which provided the foundational framework for the creation of the Alaska Permanent Fund.
During her career, she served as Executive Director of the Governor’s Committee on Employment of the Handicapped, the Fairbanks Resource Agency, the Alaska March of Dimes and Victims for Justice. She also volunteered extensively in the community, including many years on the boards of the West Anchorage High School Alumni Association and PTSA. During her tenure, she successfully championed funding for the construction of the school’s science wing and planetarium and the restoration of the historic West High Auditorium.
A memorial service celebrating Susan’s life will be held on June 24, 2026, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Z.J. Loussac Library in Anchorage. The service will take place in the Rotunda followed by a reception in the Ann Stevens Room.
In lieu of flowers, which would have irritated her allergies anyway, the family asks that donations be made in Susan’s memory to Victims for Justice, an organization that was especially meaningful to her.
