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Jerome “Jerry” William Donohue, age 95, passed away on Sept 19, 2026.
Jerry was born in Brooklyn, NY on June 30, 1931 to William and Loretta (Wietrzykowski) Donohue. He leaves behind his loving wife of 57 years, Edith (Stivers), 1 daughter, Ann (James) McDougal, 2 grandchildren Kathryn (Jeffrey) Krause and David (Catherine) McDougal, 3 great-grandsons Adam, Matthew and Payson, and 1 great-great grandson, Harry. He also leaves behind 3 brothers, Patrick (Margaret), William (Annette) and Eugene (Arlene), 1 sister, Margaret (Phil), a sister-in-law, Elaine, and countless extended family. He was predeceased by his parents, 2 sisters, Loretta Norris & Marion Dolan, and 2 brothers, Matthew & Charles.
Jerry graduated from Brooklyn Technical High School in 1949 and joined the Navy. He continued to serve his country honorably, working for the National Security Agency. He had a very prolific career of 35 years where he held a multitude of positions. He held positions in the Operations and Management Directorates. He was a charter member of the Senior Cryptologic Executive Service. He coordinated the development and startup of the Special Collection Service and served as Chief. He was a Lifetime member of the Phoenix Society.
Jerry received many awards during his career including an Outstanding Civilian Service Award, two Meritorious Civilian Service Awards and a Presidential Medal Award. Jerry also graduated from the University of Maryland with a BA in Business Management and earned his Masters from the National War College.
Jerry was very active in retirement. He and Edie loved to travel, having visited over 50 different countries in his life. They loved gardening and grew and showed the most stunning chrysanthemums. They square-danced well into their 80’s, enjoyed taking college courses throughout life, were avid Jeopardy fans and golfed at every opportunity.
Jerry was a long-time resident of Maryland, but recently moved to Westfield, MA to be closer to his daughter. He was a devoted husband and was well loved by his entire family. He will be deeply missed.
A private funeral service will be held in the Massachusetts Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery in Agawam with full military honors rendered. Flowers are appreciated and can be delivered to Colonial Forastiere Funeral & Cremation, 985 Main St., Agawam, MA 01001.