Obituary of Donna Donovan

Donna Jean (Humes) (Sweeney) Donovan, 79, of North Reading and formerly of Arlington, Burlington and Billerica, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 7th, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

Born in Arlington, Donna was one of three children born to the late Donald and Jean (Egala) Humes. She was raised and educated in Arlington and later graduated from the Chandler School for Women, where she completed her secretarial training. Her education led to a successful career spanning many years as an administrative assistant for numerous companies, where her warmth, professionalism and strong work ethic were always appreciated.

Donna found great joy in creating a warm and welcoming home for those she loved. She had a remarkable eye for decorating and especially cherished celebrating the holidays, transforming her home with festive themes that became treasured traditions for family and friends alike.

Her faith was an important part of her life, and she was deeply involved with Saint Margaret Church, particularly the Giving Tree Program, which allowed her to quietly and generously help others in need. More than anything, Donna treasured time spent with her family, especially her beloved granddaughter. Whether enjoying simple afternoons together or heading out on their special “Schoolhouse Ice Cream” getaways, those moments brought her endless happiness.

Donna was predeceased by her first husband, Robert Sweeney, who passed away in 1999. In 2000, while attending a bereavement support group at Saint Eulalia’s Church, Donna met a fellow widower, Dick Donovan. Following the completion of the program, a small group continued gathering for outings and events, and before long Donna and Dick found themselves enjoying outings of their own. Their friendship blossomed into a loving partnership, and the two were married in June of 2003. Together they shared a beautiful life filled with love, companionship and adventure, always serving as a constant source of support for one another.

Donna and Dick enjoyed traveling together and created countless cherished memories exploring Ireland, the National Parks throughout the United States, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Las Vegas and Hawaii. They also loved spending relaxing weekend getaways at their condo in Bartlett, a place that brought them great peace and happiness.

In addition to her parents and her first husband, Donna was predeceased by her brothers, Bruce and Fred Humes.

She is survived by her loving husband of 23 years, Richard “Dick” Donovan of North Reading, her son James Sweeney and his wife Kara of Billerica, a daughter, Kathy Sweeney of Billerica, a grand daughter, Jordan Sweeney of Billerica, her Brother in Law, Paul Sweeney and Sister in Law, Joan Sweeney, two step children, Mark T. Donovan and his wife Maria of South Boston, and Melissa M. Joyce and her husband Jason of Sterling MA, 10 Step grandchildren and many extended family and friends.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend her visiting hours on Sunday, May 17^th from 4pm to 7pm at the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home, 43 Winn St. Burlington. Her funeral will begin from the funeral home on Monday, May 18^th at 9am with a Funeral Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10am at St. Margaret’s Church, 111 Winn St., Burlington.  Burial will immediately follow at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sawtelle Hospice House, part of Beth Israel Lahey Health at Home at https://bilhathome.org/giving