Michelle G. Donahue's Obituary
Our dear mother Michelle left us on Monday June 21st, 2021, at her home in St. Petersburg Florida. Not only did she leave behind the weight of this world that our worn bodies hold at the end, but also her unique love and compassion for everyone she touched in her 86 years. It is truly amazing the way she touched the lives of everyone she came in contact with. From casual acquaintances to life-long childhood friendships she kept intact for 70 years. When she came to my work for a simple oil change, she spent more time talking with my friends and employees than she did with me as they would always gravitate to her. Her smile and laughter had that effect as I am sure it did on everyone she met throughout the years of her long life.
And although she was never bashful to be covertly critical of the decisions of her children and loved ones, there is no one more accepting of the menagerie of humanity that entered her circle. A true gift that rewarded her with the love and respect of all who know her. Her love for each of us at every moment, both high and low in our lives, was undeniable.
And her kindness is unique for someone who marshalled through the challenges her life presented her. Born of her Irish immigrant father Patrick and stalwart mother Edna in Rego Park, New York in 1935. As their only child, Michelle recounts a wonderful childhood even though she was living through World War II. She attended school and met her 4 lifelong friends Betty, Jean, Eileen & Elaine. Two of which survive her today.
She graduated from Bishop McDonnell Memorial High School in 1953 and later met and married her only love James Donahue in 1958. She raised her 5 children Steven, Gavin, Susan, Keith and Jessie and brought the 4 youngest to Florida for a chance at a better life and to be closer to her mother Edna.
She started a new career that she retired from as Legal Secretary for the Public Defender’s office. And continued to add new life-long friends along the way. In her retirement, she enjoyed working Estate Sales and shopping for bargains. She loved to drive all over creation. No doubt a wanderlust she inherited from her mother and Aunt Elizabeth (Libby). She was proud of all her children and even more so of her Grandchildren. For whom she would cross the Country for Mark and Jenna or the Counties for Vincent, Morgan and Nathan. Had time permitted, she wanted to meet her oldest and newest grandchild Allison. She was always a part of their lives and their accomplishments big and small.
Michelle’s Service will be held at Saint Mary Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church on Thursday July 22, 2021, in St. Petersburg, FL at 10:00 am followed by internment with her mother and father at Memorial Park Cemetery in St. Petersburg, FL at 12:00 pm.
What’s your fondest memory of Michelle?
What’s a lesson you learned from Michelle?
Share a story where Michelle's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Michelle you’ll never forget.
How did Michelle make you smile?
