David Donovan Obituary

A Mass of Christian Funeral for David William Donovan, 69, will be held at 12:00 PM noon, on Friday, February 7, 2025 at St. John Neumann Catholic Church, 100 Polo Road, Columbia, SC 29223. Father Sandy McDonald will officiate. A rosary will be recited by Father Bob Higgins on Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 6:00 PM, Kornegay Funeral Home, Lugoff-Elgin Chapel, 1139 Highway 1 South, Lugoff, SC 29078, and the family will receive friends following the rosary until 7:30 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to St. John Neumann Church (www.stjohnneumannsc.com) or The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (www.cholangiocarcinoma.org).
David William Donovan, 69, of Elgin, SC, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on June 7, 1955, in Syracuse, NY, he was the eldest of six children in a proud Irish Catholic family, the son of Polly and the late Edward Donovan.
David's early years in Syracuse were filled with faith, family, and sports. He attended St. Patrick's High School, where he excelled on both the basketball and baseball teams. His love for competition and camaraderie on the court and field stayed with him throughout his life.
His journey south led him to the University of South Carolina, where he not only earned his degree but also met the love of his life, Mary "Jane" Donovan. Together, they built a life filled with love, family, and faith over their 48 years of marriage.
David was a devoted father to Eddie (Sharon Worley) Donovan, Kelley (Charlie) Gwynne, and Patrick (Caity) Donovan. Nothing brought him more joy than being "Grandpa" to Charlie and Henry Gwynne and Quinn Donovan. Whether cheering from the sidelines at a soccer or lacrosse game or sharing words of encouragement, his unwavering support and pride in his grandchildren knew no bounds.
A natural-born salesman, David spent over 35 years in sales, where his genuine personality and sharp wit made customers into lifelong friends. He had an unmatched ability to connect with people, always leaving a lasting impression with his wit and sincerity.
A true friend to all, David had a rare gift for maintaining deep and lasting friendships, no matter the distance. His loyalty and kindness left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to know him. He was also a creative handyman, known for his unique and resourceful solutions to everyday problems.
David's passions included cheering on his beloved South Carolina Gamecocks, playing golf, and refereeing high school basketball and football. He found great joy in time spent at Edisto Beach, especially during a cherished family trip last fall.
A proud Irish Catholic, David was a dedicated member of St. John Neumann Church, where his faith was a guiding force throughout his life.
David is survived by his loving wife, Jane; his children and grandchildren; his mother, Polly; his siblings Cathy Stonecipher, Carolyn (Tom) Halton, EJ (Marianne) Donovan, and Colleen (Jon Boal) Donovan; and many adored nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward, and his brother, Jimmy Donovan.
David's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Kornegay Funeral Home, Camden Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.
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