Robert J. Donahue

Robert J. Donahue, a life-long resident of Newburyport, MA, passed away on August 17, 2022 at High Pointe House in Haverhill, MA.  Rob was born September 26, 1948 in Newburyport, the son of the late Charles Donahue and the late Mary Sullivan Donahue.

He is survived by his three children: Michael R. Donahue of Tucson, AZ, Amy B. Friend and her husband Mark Friend of West Newbury, MA, and Erin M. Donahue-Taylor of Somerset, MA; also by his sister, Patricia Gabriel of Newburyport, and his brother, John Donahue and his wife Kim Donahue of Truro, MA.  His sister, Diane Todd predeceased him. His seven grandchildren include MaKayla and Michael Donahue of Tucson, AZ, Timothy, Lily, and Penny Friend of West Newbury, MA, and Dylan and Brennan Taylor of Somerset, MA.  He is also survived by a great-grandson, Izeyah, and by a number of nieces and nephews.

Rob grew up as a member of Immaculate Conception Parish where he attended elementary school.  He graduated from Newburyport High School, class of 1966, followed by earning his BA degree from Merrimack College in North Andover, MA, class of 1970.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1972 during the Vietnam War.  After being honorably discharged he taught English at Newburyport High School until 1978 followed by a career as a probation officer at the Newburyport District Court until his retirement in 2007.  

Rob is remembered for his love of the ocean, his Irish heritage, Newburyport, fishing, dogs, and kayaking.  He was a member of the Elks, VFW, and the North End Boat Club.

Robert’s wishes were to have a private graveside service for his immediate family. His service with military honors was held Wednesday August 24, 2022 in the Veterans Section of Highland Cemetery in Newburyport. The Twomey, LeBlanc, & Conte Funeral Home 193 High St. Newburyport, MA 01950 is assisting Mr. Donahue’s family with his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to High Pointe House: https://www.homehealthfoundation.org/donate/ 

To offer online condolences please visit www.tlcfuneralhome.com

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