Donald DeWorne Donihue

Donald DeWorne Donihue, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2026, at the age of 93. Born on September 21, 1933 in Modesto, California, he was the son of the late Donald Reynolds and Mildred Lorraine (Hill) Donihue.

Donald began his career as a Methodist minister after receiving his Divinity degree from the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, California. After serving as a minister for several churches in Northern California, Donald devoted himself to higher education beginning in 1967 as a professor at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. In 1974 Donald and his family moved to Winsted, Connecticut where he spent over two decades as a respected professor and academic administrator at Mattatuck Community College in Waterbury. His passion for education was matched by his dedication to community engagement. In 2008 he moved to the Loomis Village community in South Hadley, Massachusetts, where he enjoyed working as a member of the resident council and planting and maintaining the property’s gardens. Donald also enjoyed volunteering in several nearby communities and was a member of the First Congregational Church in South Hadley.

Donald was predeceased by his beloved wife of 57 years, LaVonne (Chase) Donihue, and his son-in-law, Gary Travers.

He is survived by his loving children: Michael Donihue and his wife Susan of Oakland, Maine; David Donihue and his wife Kate of New York City; and Ann Travers of Winsted, Connecticut. He leaves behind a legacy through his five grandchildren: Colin (Claire), Ross (Emily), Virginia, Sarah, and Elias; and two great-grandchildren, Elliot and Miles. Donald is also survived by his sister, Margaret “Marge” Thomas of Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

Loomis Village has established a memorial fund in support of the Gardenside Garden where Don regularly bid his many friends a good day and enjoyed some quiet time among the fountains and flowers. Contributions in Don’s name can be sent to Loomis Village, 20 Bayon Drive, South Hadley, MA. 01075.