Ellen Mary (Hickey) Donovan, lovingly known as “Nan” and “Lena,”80, of Bow, New Hampshire, Boothbay, Maine, and Chelmsford, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully after a brief illness. 

Born in County Tipperary, Ireland, Ellen was the beloved daughter of David and Catherine Hickey, and the loving sister of Thomas, Bridget (Carroll), and Maureen (O’Doherty). At the age of 14, she left her rural country farm and close-knit family to begin a new life in New York City. There, she lived with her uncle and aunt, and her sister Bridget, who had previously immigrated. Brave and determined, she embraced her new home and built a rich and loving life with her husband, Robert A. Donovan, whom she met in New York City. 

Ellen is survived by her devoted husband, Robert; her son, Kevin, and his wife, Laura; and her four cherished grandchildren, Liam, Reilly, Jack, and Conor. She also leaves behind her sisters Bridget and Maureen, her loving sisters-in-law including, Eileen Hickey and Elaine Worden, and many other dear in-laws and extended family in the United States and in Ireland, where she returned as often as she could to stay connected with her roots. She was predeceased by her daughter, Mary Frances, and her brother, Thomas. 

A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, sister-in-law, aunt, and friend, Ellen was known for her generosity, subtle humor, and unwavering loyalty. She went out of her way to help others and always sought to bring joy to those around her. Ellen cherished time with family, took great delight in winning games of Left-Center-Right, and embraced her Irish heritage with pride. Her good nature, boundless kindness, and strong Irish spirit will be lovingly remembered by all who knew her. 

A funeral will be held at Christ the King Parish in Concord, New Hampshire at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 24 with a private reception to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Lowell General Hospital Auxiliaryby calling 978.323.7097 or online at tuftsmedicine.org. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to Bennett Funeral Home, Concord N.H.