Retired Bishop Walter F. Sullivan of Richmond, Va., 84, a resilient advocate for world peace and the dignity of poor Appalachian coal miners, poverty-stricken urban residents and migrant workers working under exhausting conditions alike, died of liver cancer Dec. 11.
From peace rallies to vigils outside Virginia’s execution chamber during the hours before a convicted murderer was put to death, Bishop Sullivan added his voice and presence to support activists, grieving family members and victims of societal indifference.
Serving as the bishop-president of Pax Christi U.S.A., the Catholic peace organization, was among Bishop Sullivan’s most visible roles outside of the Diocese of Richmond.
From 1991 through 2003, he headed the organization. He often joined public protests of U.S. military intervention around the world, leading prayer services and vigils for peace.
He also served on the boards of the National Catholic Office for Persons with Disabilities, Christian Children’s Fund in Richmond, Catholic Committee of Appalachia and the Administrative Board of the National Conference of Catholic Bishops, the forerunner of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.