Kevin James Donovan, age 79, of Saugus, Massachusetts passed away peacefully on February 8, surrounded by his loving family.

Kevin lived a life rooted in education, service, and a deep devotion to those he loved. He was born and raised in Somerville where he honed his street smarts. A proud “Double Eagle,” Kevin graduated from BC High and Boston College, later earning a Master’s degree in Education from Lesley College and a Master’s degree in Library Science from Simmons College.

Kevin met Kathleen (Cavanagh) at a dance in 1965 and he quickly won her over with his charm, kindness, and quick Irish wit. They married in 1970 and purchased their first home in Melrose two years later where they began building a life centered on love and family. In 1976, they welcomed their son, Andy. Kevin treasured his time as a stay-at-home father — a chapter of life that brought him immense pride and joy.

He began his career teaching at Madonna Hall in Marlborough before finding his calling as a school librarian in the Stoneham and Belmont public schools where he quietly shaped countless young lives. He was patient, steady, and genuinely invested in every student who walked through the door. His love of learning and journalism eventually led him to The Boston Globe, where he served as a research librarian — a role perfectly suited to his thoughtful and curious nature.

Kevin and Kathleen shared many summers in Wellfleet, creating a lifetime of memories by the water. They especially cherished days spent together at Newcomb Hollow Beach. In later retirement, they were lucky enough to enjoy winters in Naples, Florida as well as traveling to New Zealand, Alaska, Europe, and the Canadian Rockies.

Nothing, however, compared to the joy he found in being “Papa.” His grandchildren, Perry (10) and Cora (8), were the light of his life. He invented new games, read endless books, coached them on the basketball court, and took them on adventures in and around Wellfleet. A lifelong lover of basketball, Kevin rarely missed a Celtics game and found great happiness in both watching the sport and passing the love of that game down to Perry and Cora. Time spent with them was when he was happiest.

Kevin will be remembered for his perfectly timed one-liners and sharp Irish wit, which could lighten any room. Beneath the humor was a deeply kind and steady presence — a man who showed up, who listened, and who cared. He was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, a dedicated educator, and a man whose warmth and humor left a lasting imprint on everyone who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen; his son, Andy, of Middleton, and his wife, Whitney; his sister, Margaret, of Wakefield; and his cherished grandchildren, Perry and Cora. He was predeceased by his parents, John and Anna, and brothers, Jack (Judy) and Brian (Maureen) and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kevin’s memory to the Somerville Homeless Coalition 1 Davis Square Somerville, MA 02144 or the Wellfleet Food Pantry 2282A US-6, Wellfleet, MA 02667.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Spinelli’s 10 Newbury St. Peabody, MA on March 28th from 12PM - 3PM. Relatives and friends are invited to attend.