Russell E. Donovan, lifelong poultry farmer

Russell E. Donovan, 91, of Milton, passed away Friday, Sept. 23, 2016, at Harrison Senior Living in Georgetown.

Russell was born in Milton, son of the late Eldridge and Mildred (Boyce) Donovan. He was a lifelong poultry farmer, and past president of the Sussex Farm Bureau.

Russell was a member of Zion U.M. Church where he had served as past chair of the administrative board, trustee, superintendent and Sunday school teacher. He enjoyed volunteering with Delaware Hospice and ministering with Gideon's International. Russell had served in Italy with the Army Air Corp and Civil Air Patrol where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his honorable discharge he served in the National Guard for seven years in the 1950s.

In addition to his parents, Russell is preceded in death by his wife, Gladys (Baker) Donovan; and a sister, Virginia Stamper.

He is survived by four children: Nancy O'Bier and husband Donald of Seaford, Joan Sharp and husband William, Bonnie Walstead, and Cheryl Donovan-Witoski, all of Milton; a brother, Franklin Donovan of Millsboro; seven grandchildren, Christine Sharp, W. Brian Sharp, Michelle Lewis, Mark Walstead, Shawn O'Bier, Melissa O'Bier and Michael Witoski; and six great-grandchildren, Elijah Lewis, Isaac Walstead, Ryan Walstead, Mallory O'Bier, Daniel Beck and Andrew Beck.

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 29, at Zion U.M. Church, 26743 Broadkill Road, Milton, with visitation Wednesday. Sept. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m., in the chapel of Short Funeral Services, 416 Federal St., Milton.

Flowers are accepted or contributions can be made to Zion U.M. Church at the above address.