Adlene Adina Donovan

October 30, 1934 - January 9, 2024

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.