Our hearts are broken at the tragic loss of an exceptional pilot, husband, son, brother, comrade, and friend. Lt. Col. Billy “Taz” Sullivan lived each day with passion and service in all areas of his life. A 2006 graduate of the USAF Academy, with over 1500 hours in the F-15C Eagle, Billy excelled with his strong leadership and mentorship skills, serving as the Director of Operations for the 194th Fighter Squadron at the 144th Fighter Wing in Fresno, California.

“He was a force multiplier due to his intense, yet caring personality, and was truly larger than life. Taz had a thirst for life and wanted to share his love of aviation and passion for adventure with anyone and everyone he encountered…”

Billy excelled in the air, on land and in the water. Whether he was in the jet, lifting in the gym, tearing down the mountains on his bike or snowboard, surfing tasty waves, or flying his personal aircraft, he always honored his health and thrived on adventure.

His constant devotion to his family, friends and the fighter community is his greatest legacy. Billy married the love of his life, Diane, in the late Summer of 2020. They shared a beautiful life in Fresno with their sweet dog, Clyde. Diane has been pursuing a career in firefighting and graduates from the Fire Academy on June 11th. Billy always believed in Diane and was her biggest supporter.

Billy will be missed by all who knew and loved him, and his memory will never be forgotten.

With the help of your donations, we hope to ease the financial burden for his wife due to this unexpected loss. All memorial funds will go directly to Diane.

(My name is Charlie Hotel and I am a dear friend of Billy and Diane’s. I am also a spouse of a fellow F-15 fighter pilot and Griffin who worked under Billy at the 194th Fighter Squadron. Your donations will be given directly to Diane to help with initial costs and living expenses. These funds will be deposited directly into Diane’s bank account. Thank you for all of your care and support.)