Obituary: Joyce E. Donovan

Joyce E. Donovan – 87 – of Lewiston, died Thursday evening, July 11, 2024, at the Elderwood at Wheatfield Nursing Facility in Wheatfield.

Born in Niagara Falls on Feb. 27, 1937, she was the daughter of Joseph and Lois (Miller) Coulis.

Joyce was a lifelong resident of the Niagara Falls / Lewiston area and graduated from Niagara Falls High School in 1955. She was a devoted stay-at-home mom and homemaker while raising her three young children and never missed a sporting event or activity. After raising her children, Joyce began working in retail sales and was employed at several different department stores throughout the years.

Having a zest for life, Joyce loved to travel. She enjoyed her yearly trips with girlfriends and traveled to the Caribbean, Europe, Russia, Poland, Canada, Mexico and Alaska, to name a few. When she wasn’t traveling the world, Joyce dabbled in photography and knit and crocheted countless blankets for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was also a member of the Red Hat Society.

On May 19, 1956, Joyce married Donald J. Donovan, who died Aug. 22, 2006. She was also predeceased by her beloved daughter, Christy Donovan, on March 31, 1982.

Surviving are her son, Scott Donovan of Arkport; her daughter, Kelley (Richard) Kent of Niagara Falls; four grandchildren: Shannon (David) Knight, Matthew Donovan, Ricky Benningfield and Ashley Benningfield; and seven great-grandchildren.

To honor Joyce’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held by the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell.

Memorial contributions in Joyce’s name may be made to the Niagara County SPCA, 2100 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304; or by visiting https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E347149&id=1&_ga=2.5035638.477180405.1679657582-695669436.1679657582.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.