William S. Donovan Jr.

William S. Donovan Jr. passed peacefully on March 24, 2025, in West Springfield, MA, with family by his side. Bill was born May 11, 1954, in Hartford, CT, to William Sr. and Patricia (Connell) Donovan. He spent his childhood in the Wapping section of South Windsor, CT and worked at the local farms during high school. He graduated from East Catholic High School and went on to attend Eastern CT State College. Bill pursued a career in the building and construction trades, starting as the Lead Man at Precision Catalytic Moulding in Somersville, CT. He worked as a project manager for several construction companies over the years, both building new and converting existing facilities into drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers. He left the construction trade after many health challenges and ended his career in the commercial and outdoor lighting field. After he retired full-time, Bill volunteered his time to help others in need when he was able.
Throughout his life, Bill loved motorcycles and music. He was an accomplished guitar player and taught himself to play the piano. He owned many guitars throughout his life but his 12-string was always his favorite. Most of all, Bill will be remembered for his quick wit, his twinkling blue eyes and great sense of humor.
Bill and his family lived for many years in Stafford Springs, CT. He is survived by his wife, Kris and daughters Melissa Donovan of Port Charlotte, FL and Lauren Stovall and her husband, Clint, of Nashville, TN. Bill is also survived by his twin granddaughters, Abigail and Olivia Stovall of Nashville, TN, who delighted him with their "hello grandpa" video in his last days. In addition, he is survived by his siblings, Tim (Deb) Donovan of Boiling Springs, SC; Steve (Donna) Donovan of South Windsor, CT; and Kathleen (Ben) Souvigney of Enfield, CT as well as nieces and nephews, Sean and Daniel Donovan; Elizabeth (Alex) Sullivan and Matt Souvigney. Bill will also be remembered by his cousins (aka the Northern Donovans) with whom he spent many fun Sundays and holidays at our grandparent's home in Springfield, MA. Bill was predeceased by his parents, Bill and Pat Donovan.
The family would like to thank his neighbors at Courtside Apartments and caretakers at Greater Springfield Senior Services and Meals on Wheels for helping Bill to live independently for as long as possible.
Burial will be private and the family will celebrate Bill's life at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to Greater Springfield Senior Services Meals on Wheels program (www.gsssi.org) 66 Industry Avenue, Suite 9, Springfield, MA 01104 or Enfield Food Shelf (www.enfieldfoodshelf.org) 786 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT 06082.