Rosemary Therese Donohue

Rosemary Therese Donohue, 90, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Rockledge, Florida. She was the daughter of Dr. Dennis M. O'Brian, an ophthalmologist, and Mrs. Margaret Mary Desmond O'Brian, a registered nurse. She was born September 16, 1935 in Passaic, New Jersey. She graduated from Holy Child Academy in Suffern, New York and received a BA in English Literature from Rosemont College in 1957. She was an English teacher and worked at the Grolier Society in New York City, when she met Cornell surgical resident, John Patrick Donohue. They married in 1960, while he was serving in the Navy on the U.S.S. Wasp as the ship’s surgeon. The couple initially settled in Boston and then moved to Indianapolis in 1965. When their children had grown, they lived in Arizona, which Rosemary particularly loved. They eventually moved to Melbourne Beach, Florida in 2002 after her husband’s retirement to be close to family.

Rosemary was a woman of strong faith and conviction, who set a positive example for her family and those who knew her. She was dedicated to helping others. Her advice, encouragement, and wisdom were treasured. She enjoyed organizing events and traveling throughout the world with her family. While in Indianapolis, she maintained a large garden where she grew fresh vegetables, which she generously shared with her neighbors. Throughout her life, she was an avid bridge player. She also loved reading and discussing books with her children. She always had a passion for learning and had a wide range of interests.

Rosemary was predeceased by her husband, John, and siblings: Dennis O’Brian; Robert O'Brian; and Noreen Druckker. She is survived by her children Eileen Donohue-Blanzy, Bridget Donohue, Margaret DeFrancisci (Leonard) and John Donohue (Becky) as well as 7 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

She supported many charitable organizations, including Second Harvest Food Bank and Aging Matters. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Florida Wildlife Hospital (floridawildlifehospital.org) in Melbourne in her memory.