Ellen M. Donovan
Bow, NH – Ellen Mary (Hickey) Donovan, lovingly known as “Nan” and
“Lena,” 80, of Bow, NH, Boothbay, ME, and Chelmsford, MA, passed away
peacefully after a brief illness.
Born in County Tipperary, Ireland, Ellen was the beloved daughter of
David and Catherine Hickey, and the loving sister of Thomas, Bridget
(Carroll), and Maureen (O’Doherty). At the age of fourteen, she left
her rural country farm and close-knit family to begin a new life in
New York City. There, she lived with her uncle and aunt, and her
sister Bridget, who had previously immigrated. Brave and determined,
she embraced her new home and built a rich and loving life with her
husband, Robert A. Donovan, whom she met in New York City.
Ellen is survived by her devoted husband, Robert; her son, Kevin, and
his wife, Laura; and her four cherished grandchildren, Liam, Reilly,
Jack, and Conor. She also leaves behind her sisters Bridget and
Maureen, her loving sisters-in-law including, Eileen Hickey and Elaine
Worden, and many other dear in-laws and extended family in the United
States and in Ireland, where she returned as often as she could to
stay connected with her roots. She was predeceased by her daughter,
Mary Frances, and her brother, Thomas.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and
friend, Ellen was known for her generosity, subtle humor, and
unwavering loyalty. She went out of her way to help others and always
sought to bring joy to those around her. Ellen cherished time with
family, took great delight in winning games of Left-Center-Right, and
embraced her Irish heritage with pride. Her good nature, boundless
kindness, and strong Irish spirit will be lovingly remembered by all
who knew her.
A funeral will be held at Christ the King Parish in Concord, NH at
10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, with a private reception to
follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the
Lowell General Hospital Auxiliary by calling 978.323.7097 or online at
tuftsmedicine.org.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Bennett Funeral Home, Concord NH.