Paul Donovan

Paul Donovan, a cherished educator, coach, and family man, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, at his home in Canton, at the age of 80.
He leaves behind his high school sweetheart and loving wife of 57 years, Joanne, as well as a son, Paul Donovan Jr. and his wife Colleen of Long Island, and a daughter, Christine Sexton and her husband Dan of Foxboro. Paul was a very proud Grampy to Paul Donovan III, Maeve Donovan, Kevin Sexton, Timothy Sexton, and Nora Sexton. His presence in their lives provided a foundation of love and wisdom that will continue to guide them.
Born in Boston on April 13, 1945 to the late James and Frances Donovan, Paul was one of seven children. He is survived by his brother Bob Donovan of Virginia, Nancy Crane of New Hampshire, Janet Cleary of Tewksbury, and Mary Ellen Carter of Marshfield along with his sister-in-law Jane Bradley of Norwood. He was predeceased by his brothers, Jay of Oklahoma and Dick of Marshfield.
Although raised mostly in Mattapan, Paul attended Christopher Columbus High School in the North End, where his policeman father could keep a better eye on him and his brothers. Paul went on to graduate from Boston State College in 1966 and later earned a Master's degree in mathematics from the University of New Hampshire.

Paul began his career as a math teacher at Old Rochester Regional High School, but in 1967 he moved to the Blue Hills Regional Technical High School in Canton, where he would teach and coach for 35 years, eventually becoming the head of the math department and the varsity boys basketball coach. Paul was able to positively impact so many over the years in the classroom, as well as from the sidelines at Blue Hills. No doubt his exhortations to "Box Out!" and "Get Back!" still ring in the ears of his beloved basketball players. Paul concluded his teaching career at Archbishop Williams, retiring in 2009.

Away from work, Paul enjoyed spending time with family and friends, often visiting Maine and Cape Cod, two of his favorite places. His love for the ocean began as a boy, spending summers at the Donovan family cottage in Marshfield and he was known to go for a swim to "cool off" no matter the temperature or what he was wearing even into his 70s. He became an avid golfer and was a passionate sports fan, especially of the Patriots and Celtics.
Paul's legacy is one of kindness, generosity, dedication, and integrity. His gentle guidance and unwavering support will be profoundly missed by those who were fortunate enough to have known him. We take solace knowing his spirit will live on and continue to inspire us.

Visiting hours at the Dockray & Thomas Funeral Home 455 Washington St. Canton Monday November 17th from 4:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral service at the Funeral home Tuesday morning November 18th at 11:00 am. Burial Knollwood Memorial Park, Canton.