William Francis Donovan

Adored grandfather, father, and friend, William “Billy” Francis Donovan, passed away peacefully at his home in Walpole, Massachusetts, on January 14, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. At the age of 75, Billy completed a courageous 3½-year battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness, and steadfast love for those fortunate enough to know him.

Born in Brighton, Massachusetts, on June 13, 1949, Billy was the cherished son of John Lawrence and Ellen “Eileen” Marie (McCarrick) Donovan. In his early years, he was an active member of the Holy Name CYO, serving as a key member of its Color Guard. A graduate of Brighton High School, Billy found joy in being part of the hockey team as their equipment manager.

Following high school, Billy answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the U.S. Navy and becoming a proud Seabee. He was deployed during the Vietnam War, where he demonstrated the resilience and dedication that would define his life. Upon returning home, Billy rekindled his romance with his high school sweetheart, Annmarie T. (Sheridan), whom he had met through the CYO. Together, they built a life of unwavering love, eventually settling in Walpole and raising three sons.

Billy dedicated 56 years of faithful service to the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic charity organization that was central to his life. Rising through the ranks from Grand Knight of the Walpole Council to Fourth-Degree Knight and District Deputy, he ultimately served a two-year term as State Deputy of the Massachusetts Knights of Columbus. A staunch pro-life advocate, Billy focused much of his energy on supporting the unborn and other causes close to his heart.

For 37 years, Billy worked as a skilled mechanic at Brodie in Sharon, Massachusetts. 

His greatest joy came from being “Pop” and “Pops” to his beloved grandchildren, who lit up his world and brought him endless pride.

Billy was the devoted husband of 45 years to the late Annmarie T. Donovan, whose love he carried with him every day. He leaves behind his three sons: William “Billy” F. Donovan and his partner Ashley Telles of Wareham; Matthew S. Donovan and his wife Kristen of Walpole; and Jeffrey M. Donovan and his partner Allyson Semle of Scarborough, Maine. He was the proud and cherished grandfather of Liam, James, Patrick, Quintin, Elanor, and Everet.

Billy is also survived by his siblings: Patricia McLeod and her husband Doug of Marblehead; Kathleen Bruzzese and her husband Tony of Windham, New Hampshire; the late John Donovan and his surviving wife Tammy of Boston; Ellen Bower and her husband Mark of Hopkinton, New Hampshire; and Ed Donovan and his wife Ellen of Milton. He leaves behind nine nieces and nephews, three great-nephews, extended family, and countless friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Billy’s family invites relatives and friends to celebrate his remarkable life. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole. 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Sacrament Church, 10 Diamond Street, Walpole, followed by interment at Knollwood Memorial Park in Canton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Billy’s memory may be made to the Knights of Columbus Coats for Kids, a cause close to his heart, at 137 Stone Street, Walpole, MA 02081. His family ask that you honor Billy’s legacy by spreading kindness and bringing beauty to the community around you—a reflection of the way he lived his life.

Billy’s unwavering faith, selfless service, and boundless love will be dearly missed but forever cherished by all who knew him. May he rest in eternal peace, reunited with his beloved Annmarie.