Raymond F. Donohue

Raymond F. Donohue, 73, of Drexel Hill, PA, a retired funeral director, died peacefully at his residence in Drexel Hill, PA on January 29, 2008. Ray resided in Upper Darby and Drexel Hill where he raised his family and spent his working career. Ray attended West Catholic High School for Boys and Upper Darby High School, Class of 1953, as well as Temple University, where he was a brother of Pi Sigma Eta Fraternity, Villanova University and Eckels School of Mortuary Science in Philadelphia, PA. As a veteran, Ray served in both the United States Army and Navy. He was a member of St Bernadette Catholic Church in Drexel Hill and was a Past Grand Knight, 4th degree member Knights of Columbus, Trinity Council #3132, Upper Darby, PA. Ray was a licensed funeral director who worked in his family business for nearly 50 years, initially in Philadelphia and later throughout Delaware, Chester and Montgomery Counties as a partner and later served as President of The Donohue Funeral Home, Inc. until his retirement in 2000. Ray’s main focus in life was his wife of 47 years, Carol Ann Donohue (nee Krohmer) and his children Michael P. Esq. of Havertown, PA, Janet M. Hopson of Prospect Park, PAJohn R. of Drexel Hill, PA, Daniel F. of Havertown, PA, Donna R. Hendricks of Downingtown, PA and Dennis J. of Drexel Hill, PA as well as his 17 grandchildren. A long-time member of Llanerch Country Club, Ray was an avid golfer. He was also an accomplished fisherman and hunter and spent a great deal of time at his farm in Dushore, Sullivan County, PA. He was also known to enjoy a taste of Guinness on occasion. Ray was an accomplished genealogist who made many trips to Ireland in search of his family roots and eventually traced his Irish history as far back as the 1600's. In fact, on one of his first trips to Ireland, Ray had the extraordinary fortune of meeting direct descendents of his family with whom he carried on an extensive correspondence for many years. Ray was particularly found of his relationship with Richard O'Donoghue and his entire extended family from Castle Isle, County Kerry, Ireland. Ray was also active in numerous Irish charities and societies and was a Green Jacket recipient of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. In addition, Ray loved model railroading with his LGB trains and had both indoor and outdoor layouts that he loved to show to anyone who asked, in particular, the children from the various local schools. Ray is also survived by his brothers John and Robert, and many nieces and nephews of the Krohmer, Lion, Fitzpatrick and Donohue families. He was predeceased by his sister, Carolyn Fitzpatrick Ward. Relatives and friends may visit the family on Friday, February 1, 2008 from 6:30-9 PM and Saturday 9:30-10:15 AM precisely at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM at Church of St. Bernadette, 1035 Turner Avenue, Drexel Hill, PA. Interment will follow in SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Ray’s name may be made to The Pink Sisters, Convent of Divine Love, 2212 Green Street, Philadelphia, PA 19130. Online condolences to www.donohuefuneralhome.com To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Raymond F. Donohue, please visit our flower store.