With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Mary Lorraine Donovan, a beacon of love and strength, who left us gracefully on April 16, 2026. Born on June 14, 1929, in St. Stephen, NB, Canada, Mary lived a vibrant life of 96 years, most of which she spent in Milltown, Maine, the town she loved and called home.
Mary was a woman of strong convictions and unyielding resilience. She was an Avon Representative for 17 years, a profession she loved and excelled at. Her charming personality and knack for making people feel special made her a much-loved figure in her community. Outside work, Mary was a woman of many passions. She was a staple at the local bingo hall, where she played three times a week, a pastime that brought her immense joy. Mary was also a fan of cribbage and dominoes, playing with her friends and family whenever she had the chance. As an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary and the Immaculate Conception Church, Mary's commitment to her community was unquestionable.
Behind her engaging and outgoing personality was a woman who deeply valued her family. Married in 1958, she shared a beautiful life with her beloved husband, Ted Donovan who preceded her in 1995. She also spent 10 treasured years with her long-time friend Harland Hitchings. She is survived by her children James Donovan and his wife Faye, Joan and her husband William Tracy, and Daughter-in-law Rochelle Waycott; Grandchildren; Lori (Mike) Carr , Melvin Waycott, Mary Waycott, Arlene Leighton, Joey (Vanessa) Waycott, Jason Waycott, Mark (Jillian) Waycott, David (Brenda) Lee Sr., Anita (Steve) Clark, Frances (Ryan) Tracy-Dunn, Heather (Josh) Brown, Sarah (Ryan) Matthews, 23 great-grandchildren, numerous great-great-grandchildren, and lifelong family friend, John Wood.
She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Margaret Cookson, her son Melvin "Cudgie" L. Waycott Jr., and three infant siblings. Mary's love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and her memory will forever be cherished by the many lives she touched.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the caregivers at Wellmore Point and the Community Health and Counseling Hospice members for the wonderful care they provided Mary.
Visitation will be held 6-8 pm on Friday June 5, 2026 at Mays Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Calais. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10 am, Saturday June 6, 2026 at Immaculate Conception Church, 31 Calais Ave, Calais. Burial will follow at Calais Cemetery. Donations in Mary's memory may be made to St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish, 31 Calais Ave, Calais, ME 04619.
We invite you to share your favorite memories and photos of Mary on her memorial page at www.MaysFuneralHome.com. Mary's life was a testament to the power of love, community, and resilience, and it is through sharing our memories that we keep her spirit alive.