Adlene Adina Donovan
Adlene Adina Graham-Donovan, affectionately known to many as “Addie”
was born to the late Cyril Graham and Rosita Callwood on October 30th,
1934 in Great Harbour Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands. Adlene grew
up and completed her primary education in the British Virgin Islands before
relocating to St. Thomas US Virgin Islands. As a young adult, she worked in
St.Thomas as a professional nanny/caregiver where she met and married
Julius Donovan of Carrot Bay Tortola, on November 30th, 1960.
In the late 1960’s, Adlene and family relocated to New York City, NY.
There she furthered and completed her education while continuing her
professional career before retiring after twenty-five plus years of dedication
and faithful service. Adlene was such a vibrant, loving, and spirited person.
She was always there to lend a helping hand when in need. She enjoyed
playing her harmonica, especially on birthdays and church functions. Adlene
gave great wisdom, encouragement, and words of the Lord. She loved going
to church where she made many friends with her contagious smile and
charming charisma. She was lovingly known as “Mother Donovan” to all her
church family. Adlene lived a long and prosperous life and was loved by
many. She did not fear death but embraced it knowing she will be with her
Lord and savior, Jesus Christ. On January 9th, 2024 heaven gained a new
angel. Adlene peacefully departed at the blessed age of 89. She is now with
her Lord and Savior, and to God be the glory for her well lived life in his
service.
Adlene was preceded in death by her late husband Julius Donovan, son Julius
Donovan Jr, and siblings Charles Graham, Anita Graham, Ethel Thomas, and
Leonora Graham. She leaves to mourn her children: Janet James, Juliette
Peterson, Terrence Hendrickson, Deborah Hendrickson-Palmer, Judy
Donovan, and Sharon Donovan-Stafford. Remaining siblings: McKenly
Graham, Elfreda Dickerson and Amalia Battle. She also leaves to mourn her
beloved grandchildren, great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, family,
church family, and friends.