In Loving Memory of Joan Donahue

June 8, 1935 – April 3, 2025

Joan Donahue was born on June 8, 1935, in Riverhead, NY, to Helen and Thaddeus Victoria. She lived a life filled with love, kindness, and devotion to her family and friends.

She was a proud graduate of St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing in New York and dedicated her life to caring for others. She remained deeply connected to her hometown of Riverhead, where she built lasting friendships and cherished memories.

She was preceded in passing by her beloved husband, William Donahue; her son, Bill Donahue; her son-in-law, Rick Messick; and her granddaughters, Paige Messick and Lara Sullivan.

She is survived by her loving children, Diane Messick, James Donahue, and Patricia Fusch; her daughter-in-law, Simone Donahue; her son-in-law, Eric Fusch; and her adored grandchildren: Ryan Messick, Brittany Fusch, Linsy Fusch, Max Goebel, Lydia Goebel, Dominic Donahue, Cecelia Donahue, John Sullivan, Caitlin Sullivan, Serena Sullivan, and Lily Sullivan.

After being a nurse for many years, Joan worked for and retired from the local Department of Housing and Development. She continued to show how much she cared for others by taking in family members when they were in need.

Joan was a gourmet cook, had a beautiful backyard garden that her grandchildren especially loved, and was an incredible friend. She was an active and joyful member of the Red Hat Society, always bringing warmth and laughter wherever she went.

She enjoyed watching her favorite soaps and spending time with those she held dear. She also loved shopping and could out-shop anyone.

Her kindness, strength, and loving spirit will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of life will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025 at R.T. Foard Funeral Home, 111 South Queen Street, Rising Sun, MD where family and friends may begin visiting at 10:00AM.  Burial will follow at Brookview Cemetery.