JAMES “JIM” WILLIAM DONOVAN, 82, of Lancaster, died on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at Weeks Medical Center in Lancaster, surrounded by his family.

James was born in Norton, VT, on July 23, 1943, to the late Charles Oliver and Rosemary (Brousseau) Donovan. He graduated from Groveton High School in 1963.

He worked for over 22 years for Diamond International and James River Paper Co. James was a member of the St. Marguerite d'Youville Parish, St. Francis Church in Groveton. He was also a member of the Groveton Fish & Game and a past member of the Moose Lodge. He also served honorably in the Army National Guard.

James was known for his love of the outdoors and his adventurous spirit. He enjoyed fishing and hunting, scooter rides around the town of Lancaster, metal detecting, and treasured summers spent boating or camping with his family. He also found great pleasure in long car rides, whether traveling to familiar places or exploring new destinations. James traveled to Littleton often with his longtime companion of 33 years, Susan Hebert, to visit their favorite restaurants and to do some shopping.

James was kind and welcoming to all, and his warm presence left a lasting impression on everyone he met. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

James was previously married to Lorraine Donovan for 28 years, and he is survived by their three children, the twins Tim O. Donovan and his wife Beth of Whitefield, Tammy R. Summerford and her fiancé Will Morse of Groveton, and Michael G. Donovan and his wife Tara of Whitefield; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by one brother, Joseph Donovan, one sister, June Donovan Holloway, one granddaughter, Julie, and one grandson, Adam.

Memorial donation may be made in James' name to The Riverside Animal Rescue and mailed to 236 Riverside Ave, Lunenburg, VT 05906.

Memorial calling hours will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Armstrong-Charron Funeral Home in Groveton. Graveside service will be on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Northumberland Cemetery in Groveton, with Pastor Seth Frink of the Assembly of God Church in Lancaster, officiating.

For directions to the services or to send the family your condolences via the online guest book, please visitwww.armstrongcharronfuneralhome.com