Joan E. Donohue

Joan E. Donohue, 88, of Baldwinsville, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. A native of Brewerton, she was the daughter of the late LaDette and Beatrice Cross. Joan resided in the Solvay and Camillus areas before moving to Liverpool for several years and most recently to Baldwinsville.

Joan worked as a medical secretary, an Avon representative, and as a legal secretary for Onondaga County Family Services for several years, which she found very fulfilling. She later bought and sold antiques at various shows in CNY. Joan was keenly interested in politics and worked for the Board of Elections. 

In her youth, she played on the basketball team and was a majorette. Joan was an avid reader and enjoyed horseback riding, ice skating, and fireworks. She also loved to go out dancing and sailing with her late husband, Jack. She was a star player in Fantasy football and an avid bowler who won many tournaments. Joan had a tender heart for foster children, animals of any kind and all underdogs. She was cheerful and kind even while facing her difficulties. She was a member of the Living Word Church where she dedicated her life to Jesus Christ.

In addition to her husband John “Jack” of nearly 40 years in 1994, she was also predeceased by her granddaughter, Sheena Morris in 2009 and her brother, LaDette “John” Cross in 2022.

Joan is survived by her five children: David (Teresa) Svedman of Oklahoma, Jody Keim of North Syracuse, Catherine (David) Ross of Baldwinsville, Jack (Lorrie) Donohue of Brewerton, Kelly (Kevin) Osborn of Readington Shores, FL; her grandchildren: Jordan and Jacob Svedman, Priscilla (Joe) Burczynski, Joshua Keim, Judah (Simone Gunderson-Keim) Keim, Scott Murphy, Matthew Murphy, Jennifer (Joe) Brown, Andrew Murphy, Mike (Linda Cheng-Murphy) Murphy, Autumn Slamzynski, Elisha (Judah) Connor, Amanda (Gordon) English, Becky (Matt) Baroody; 34 great grandchildren; as well as one great great granddaughter and expecting an addition in June.

Contributions may be made to Hospice of CNY, 990 7^th North St., Liverpool, NY 13088 or Helping Hounds, 7268 Caswell Ave., North Syracuse, NY 13212.