Gay V. Donovan

Gay V. Donovan, age 70, of Cazenovia, passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at Harvest Guest Home in Richland Center. She was born July 23, 1954, in Shawano, WI, the daughter of Russell and Leola (Rhode) Jones. On November 12, 1976 she married Dr. Joseph “Doc” Donovan in Milwaukee, WI. With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Gay Donovan, a truly extraordinary woman whose kindness, warmth, and unwavering love touched everyone she met. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a cherished grandmother, and a friend to all. Gay’s faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life. She loved the Lord with all her heart and lived each day knowing, with absolute certainty, that she would one day be in heaven. Her unwavering faith gave her strength, peace, and an incredible ability to see the good in every situation. Everything she did was for her family. Her love for her husband, children, and grandchildren knew no bounds—she loved with her whole heart, always putting them first. No matter the situation, she found the good in it, meeting every challenge with a smile that could brighten even the darkest days. Her happiness was contagious, and her presence brought comfort, joy, and a sense of home to all who knew her. She always reminded her children of just how deeply they were loved, telling them often that she loved them all the way up to Jesus’ heart and back. Gay was an incredibly talented woman—a beautiful singer whose voice could lift spirits, an artistic soul who poured love into her crafts, and a woman of remarkable strength. She adored making holidays special, ensuring that every moment with her family was filled with love, thoughtfulness, and warmth. She never forgot a birthday or an important moment, always making sure everyone knew just how much she cared. She loved traveling, family vacations, and camping—any opportunity to spend time away with her loved ones. Those moments were some of her favorites, filled with laughter, adventure, and the simple joy of being together. She took pride in always looking her best, a reflection of her vibrant spirit. Even in life’s toughest moments, during hospital stays and surgeries, strangers and nurses alike would admire her beautifully manicured nails—a small but special part of her legacy that she passed down to her daughters and granddaughters. Her love for babies was endless; if she could have had a thousand, she would have. When she was done having her own, she poured that same deep love into her grandchildren, treasuring every moment with them. She loved her stepchildren as if they were her own, never seeing them as anything less than her beloved children. Her husband was her best friend and greatest love. The bond they shared was undeniable, a rare and beautiful connection that was evident to anyone who saw them together. Their love was an inspiration—a testament to the depth of devotion and partnership that many only dream of. Above all, Gay had a gift for making people feel special. From the moment you met her, you felt welcomed, accepted, and truly loved. She never met a stranger—only friends she hadn’t yet made. Her kindness was effortless, her warmth genuine, and her love limitless. Surrounded by the family she adored until her very last breath, she leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and beauty. Though our hearts ache, we find comfort knowing she is now reunited with Jesus and the loved ones who went before her, waiting to welcome us with open arms one day. She was love, she was light, and she was ours. And for that, we are forever grateful. Survivors include her husband, Dr. Joseph “Doc” Donovan of Cazenovia; 12 children, Vickie Donovan, Joey Donovan, Scott (Sheri) Donovan, Steve Donovan, Jason (Jodi) Donovan, Tim (Carlene) Donovan, Dale (Samantha) Donovan, Jennifer Storkson (Todd Abing), Jackie Spencer (Rory Comins), Tommy Donovan (Jen McGuire), Stephanie (Chris) Mueller, Lucky (Brandon) Donovan-Fowell; 14 grandchildren, Scotty, Sammi, Lina, Hazel, Lily, Niah, Kyli, Kadi, Jordan, Anna, Wyatt, Brynlee, Alayna, and Colton; 3 great-grandchildren, Finn, Adley, and Cassian; 3 brothers, Russell (Myra) Jones, John (Elaine) Jones, Jack Jones; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; 2 sons, Timothy J. Donovan and Shawn Donovan; 2 sons-in-law, Dan Spencer and Jerimiah Storkson; and a sister, Sandra Rodriguez. Funeral Service will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM at the Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center. Visitation will be held on Monday from 10:00 AM until the time of service. Burial will follow in the Soules Creek Cemetery with Pastor Michael J. Breininger officiating. www.clarymemorialfuneralhome.com .

Gay V. Donovan

July 23, 1954 - February 5, 2025