Barbara Ann Donovan

Barbara Ann Donovan, 91, died Saturday in Taylor at the home of her loving daughter and caregiver, Patricia. Her husband of 57 years, Francis P. Donovan, passed away in 2007.

Born in Clarks Summit, she was the daughter of the late Otis and Jeannette Clark Gavitt. She was very proud to be a descendant of Deacon William Clark, who was the original settler of Clarks Green. She was a longtime resident of Scranton and member of St. David's Church and later St. Patrick's Church. Returning to Clarks Summit during her senior years, she enjoyed living at Linden Crest High-Rise where she made many wonderful friendships.

Surviving are her children, Cheryl Duffy and husband, Michael, Scranton; Patricia Deininger and husband, Michael, Taylor; Francis Donovan, Scranton; Barbara Fiorenza and husband, John, Dalton; and Jeannette Alunni and husband, Paris, Dunmore; brother, Allan Gavitt and wife, Mary, of Georgia; grandchildren, Dennis Jr., Holly, Lori, Patrick, Michael, Joe, Jimmy, Ashley, Christopher, Alyssa, A.J., Rachel, Daniela, Paris and Katie; five great-grandchildren; an "adopted" daughter, Gail Neely; many nieces, nephews and cousins who she adored.

She was preceded in death by a son, Dennis; brother, Duane Gavitt; and sisters, Katherine Dodge, Helen Owens and Victoria Gudaitis.

Barbara "Babs" was a loving mother, who's love was unconditional. She was always wanting to play games with her grandchildren, which they all loved! Known as the "Family Matriarch," her greatest joy was spending time with her family during holidays, family picnics, camping trips and vacations to Canada and Cape May.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 11 a.m. in St. Patrick's Church, Jackson Street, Scranton.

Friends and family may call at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church. The Mass will be celebrated by the Rev. J. Duane Gavitt, Barbara's loving nephew. Interment will be held at Cathedral Cemetery.

Arrangements by Jacob Davis Funeral Home, 422 S. Main St., Taylor, Pa.