Richard Dennis Donovan

1935 - 2021

DONOVAN, Richard Dennis, 85, of Richmond, Va. passed away peacefully on March 29, 2021. A man of strong faith, he will be remembered most for his kindness and generosity. Affectionally known as "Gay-Gay," he was happiest when surrounded by family. He was predeceased by his wife of 51 years, Mary Elizabeth Donovan; their daughter, Deborah Ann; his parents, Walter Francis Donovan Sr. and Margaret O'Neil Donovan; his brother, William David Donovan; his sister, Patricia Donovan Burke; and his son-in-law, John Anderson. He is survived by his children, William David Donovan II (Tonya), Diane Anderson, Dennis Donovan, Donna Mummert and Douglas Donovan (Ann); his grandchildren, Nathan Anderson (Bethany), Emily Anderson, Rebecca Ewbank (Adam), Shane Mummert (Jessica), Kathleen Staples (David), Claire Cerri (Marc), Devin Mummert (Rebecca), Nolan Donovan and Hannah Donovan; 11 great-grandchildren; and his siblings, Walter Francis Donovan Jr. (Charlotte), Maggie O'Neil Donovan and Mary Ellen Huennekens (Kevin). He was a lifelong member of St. Benedict Catholic Church and a graduate of Benedictine High School Class of 1954. He was a Journeyman Electrician retired from IBEW Local 666 after over 40 years of service. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 15, at St. Benedict Catholic Church, 300 North Sheppard St. Graveside services will be private. Due to COVID-19 attendance limitations, friends and family are encouraged to watch the livestream of the service. The link can be found on blileys.com, where online condolences can also be left for the family. The family would like to thank the staff at Glenburnie Rehab and Nursing Center and Ascend Hospice.