John Breckinridge O’Sullivan, affectionately known as Johnny Bear to his family, Yanik to his father, and Sully to his friends, passed away on Thursday, May 18th, 2023. His life, full of warmth and potential, was tragically curtailed by a relentless battle with opiate addiction. For a decade, John fought with immense courage and determination against this insidious disease, but ultimately, it claimed his life.
Born on a humid Houston day, September 8th, 1991, John was the cherished second son in his family. His early years were filled with the typical brotherly dynamics – playfully teasing his older brother Nick and embarking on countless adventures with his younger brother Cameron. He found joy and success in swimming, earning numerous accolades, and treasured family trips to Lake McQueeney and Pirates Beach. John’s academic journey led him to St. John’s School in the 6th grade, from which he proudly graduated in 2010. He continued his education at the University of Georgia, where he joined the Lambda Chi fraternity and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in 2014. His professional life was diverse, encompassing roles in equity research, private equity, and commercial real estate.
Beyond his achievements, John Breckinridge will be most fondly remembered for his generous heart, infectious smile, and imposing yet gentle 6′ 4″ stature. He was a true gentle giant, approachable and kind, with a humorous side that emerged when someone dared to interrupt his sleep or shorten his preferred shower time. An avid reader, John also deeply valued family gatherings, engaging board games, lively political debates at the dinner table, and playfully teasing his sister-in-law Kim, an activity he particularly enjoyed. His humor, warmth, and endearing nature leave a void in the lives of all who knew him.
In his later years, while living in Colorado, John discovered a passion for skiing, golf, and hiking. These activities provided solace and support as he navigated the daily challenges of recovery. A significant chapter in his final year was meeting Ashley Lamphere, with whom he found love. Ashley’s empathy and understanding were a source of strength and a true blessing in John’s life. Recently, John was excited about an upcoming family trip to Portugal and the promise of a new job. Despite these positive developments, the grip of addiction tightened. Even surrounded by love and support, the isolating torment and shame associated with the disease overshadowed his progress. John Breckinridge desperately sought freedom from addiction’s grasp and longed for recovery. There were moments of hope and emerging joy, but ultimately, liberation eluded him.
John’s passing is a profound tragedy. His family hopes that by openly sharing his story, they can help other families facing similar struggles and contribute to breaking the stigma surrounding addiction.
John Breckinridge is survived by his loving parents, Chris and Vivie, his brothers and sisters-in-law, Nick and Kim, and Cameron and Camilla, his grandmother, Letty Knapp, his niece Margaret Anne, and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. A memorial service celebrating John’s life will be held at St. John the Divine Episcopal Church, 2450 River Oaks Blvd., on Thursday, June 1st, 2023, at eleven o’clock in the morning, officiated by Reverend James M. L. Grace. A reception will follow the service, and a livestream will be available at https://sjd.org/osullivan.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in John’s memory be made to Jaywalker Lodge, 811 Main Ct., Carbondale, CO 81623.
