Obituary of Phyllis Jeanne Donovan
Age 85, of Clio, passed away Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at Hospice House of Shiawassee County. In accordance with Phyllis’ wishes, cremation has taken place. There are no further services at this time. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Hospice House of Shiawassee County. Expressions of sympathy may be placed on Phyllis’ tribute page at martinfuneralhome.com.
Phyllis was born in Sault Ste Marie, Michigan, on September 26, 1937, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Keith and Myrtle (Pettet) Eaton. Educated locally, Phyllis graduated from Sault Ste Marie High School with the Class of 1955. She went on to obtain several degrees, including receiving her bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Phyllis met and married the love of her life, Max Donovan, on February 18, 1961, at Bethany United Methodist Church in Clio. Sadly, he preceded her in death on July 9, 1984. Phyllis worked as a Registered Nurse in the pediatrics department of Hurley Medical Center until her retirement in 1990. Phyllis loved her Yooper heritage and loved growing up in Sault Ste. Marie and around Lake Superior. Phyllis and Max loved children which led them to become foster parents to many children in the Genesee County area for several years. As well as her love for children, Phyllis was also an avid animal lover and took part in doggie rescue and hospice. After her retirement, Phyllis worked as a tutor at the Sylvan Learning Center for children in need. She was also an advocate for the Hemophilia Foundation of Michigan. In her free time, Phyllis enjoyed reading, traveling, and exploring other cultures. Her love for her family was unwavering, and she will be greatly missed.
Phyllis’ family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Stoynoff and Doni Warner for getting mom "home" to Hurley. Luann, Amy, Courtney W., and Andy, thank you for being so much more than nurses. Your friendship, compassion, and empathy through mom's journey will never be forgotten. To the 9E staff at Hurley, thank you all for going above and beyond to provide mom with the best of care and comfort. To the Hospice House of Shiawassee County, thank you for being the light at the end of a very long journey.
Left to cherish Phyllis' memory are her children: Colleen and husband, Harold Donovan-Wilber, Mary Donovan, Sara Donovan, Meghan Donovan-Barrett, Asha Donovan, Brittany Donovan; 17 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; siblings: Darlene Locke, Debbie Bellegraph; lifelong friend, Marilyn DeLauter; several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Max; daughter, Susan Donovan-Quinn; brothers: Tom Eaton and Larry Eaton; great-grandson, Owen Moses.
