Nancy (Carbonaro) Donovan

Nancy Carbonaro Donovan, age 79, passed away peacefully on the morning of April 17, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. After a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer, Nancy slipped away quietly in her sleep, held close by those who meant the world to her—and to whom she meant everything.

Born on Christmas Day, 1946, Nancy always said she came into this world as a gift—and those who knew her would never argue otherwise. She carried that spirit of giving throughout her entire life, approaching each day with warmth, generosity, and a deep and abiding love for the people and creatures around her.

Nancy dedicated her career to the Auburn School District, where she served in various capacities over the years. Her commitment to the children and families of the Auburn community was unwavering, and she touched countless lives.

Above all, Nancy and her husband Joe shared a love story that spanned 55 years of marriage. They were inseparable—true partners in every sense of the word. Whatever they did, they did together. Whether it was tending the garden, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a quiet morning on the porch.

Beyond her professional life, Nancy’s true passions were rooted in her deep love for Mother Nature. She was a devoted gardener who took immense pride in her flowers and plants, nurturing them with the same care she gave to everything in her life. Nancy had a gift for connecting with wildlife—she could sit quietly in her yard and have wild squirrels eating right out of her hand, a talent that amazed and delighted everyone who saw it. It was simply who she was—gentle, patient, and at home in the world around her.

Nancy’s generosity knew no bounds. She gave freely of her time, her heart, and her spirit to anyone who needed it. But nothing in this world brought her more happiness than her family. She adored her grandson Aidan with a love that was fierce and tender in equal measure, and she was the proudest grandmother anyone could imagine. She also held a special place in her heart for her beloved grand dogs, who were never far from her affection.

Nancy is survived by her husband of 55 years, JoeDonovan; her daughter, Christine Donovan; her son, Brian Donovan; her daughter-in-law, Amanda Donovan; and her cherished grandson, Aidan Donovan.

Nancy lived a life defined by love—love for her family, love for Mother Nature, and love for the simple, beautiful moments that make a life whole. She will be deeply and forever missed.

Arrangements are with White Chapel Funeral Home Inc., Auburn. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Special Olympics in Nancy’s memory.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nancy (Carbonaro) Donovan, please visit our floral store.