Elizabeth R. "Betty" Donovan

Betty Donovan passed away peacefully on October 14, 2025, at Mount Assisi Place, at the age of 99.
A devoted Catholic throughout her long life, Betty was a founding member of the Ladies of Charity at St. Francis Xavier Church, where she dedicated countless hours to serving others. Her faith guided her every day and was the foundation for her compassion and generosity.
Betty was the beloved wife of the late James Joseph Donovan, who predeceased her by 43 years, and the proud mother of eleven children: Mary Pat, Carol, Betsy, Colleen, Suzanne, Nellie, Jim, John, Mike, Annie, and Tim (predeceased by Carol and Betsy). She is also survived by twenty grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. Frequent visits from family were a source of great joy in her later years.
The youngest and last surviving of eight siblings, Betty came from a family known for its longevity, energy, and humor. She shared these traits with her beloved sister, Annamarie, in a remarkably long and close partnership. Those who knew her best know she had an enduring love of chocolate and was always happy to share her stash with visitors.
Visitations will be held at O'Brien's Funeral Home, 3724 California Ave on Thursday, October 23rd from 3-7 PM. A funeral Mass celebrating Betty's life will be held at 10AM at St. Peter's Church-Christ Our Savior Parish, with interment to follow beside her husband, Jim, at Christ Our Redeemer Cemetery.
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