Obituary of Francis X. Donohoe

FRANCIS X (Frank) DONOHOE of Linfield, PA, formerly of Philadelphia and Glenside, PA and Ocean City, NJ, died June 5, 2021 at the age of 87 following a brief illness.

Frank was born in Philadelphia, PA August 22, 1933 to the late Hugh A and Katharine (Gaughan) Donohoe and was pre-deceased in his youth by his brother, Hugh J Donohoe.

Frank attended Saint Athanasius grammar school before graduating from La Salle College High School (1951) and La Salle College (1955) and later earned a Master’s Degree from Saint Joseph’s University (1969). 

Mr. D’s life’s work was teaching, including 25 years at Frankford High School in Philadelphia, PA, 8 years at Mount Saint Joseph Academy in Flourtown, PA and 25 years at La Salle College (Evening Division) in Philadelphia, PA. Whenever he was asked what he taught, his answer was always, “Kids.” As such, he leaves behind a legacy as teacher and mentor in thousands of young lives.

Dad’s avocation was raising his five kids on love of God, love of family, Big 5 basketball doubleheaders and Notre Dame football. His quiet strength and determination were the perfect complement to Mom’s unfailing energy, enthusiasm and patience. In his later years, he liked nothing more than to spend time with family, make sure everybody had his or her favorite beverage, tell a story, share a word or two of wisdom and maybe sing a song…as long as there was a quiet place to hide when the silliness got out of hand.

Frank is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Mary Lou (White) Donohoe; sister Mary Gail Dwyer of Cherry Hill, NJ; daughter Katharine Truitt (Stephen) of Swarthmore, PA; son Patrick Donohoe (Allison) of Schnecksville, PA; son Dr. Michael Donohoe (MaryEllen) of Eagleville, PA; daughter Eileen Hedrick (Ron) of Collegeville, PA; daughter Theresa McDougall (Scott) of Farmington, MI; (11) grandchildren and (12) great grandchildren; (10) nieces and nephews and (24) great nieces and nephews; and family of the heart too numerous to count.

Relatives and friends are invited to Saint Teresa of Calcutta Church, 256 Swamp Pike, Schwenksville, PA 19473 on Saturday, June 12, 2021 to visit with Frank’s family from 10:00 to 11:15 AM, with Mass of Christian Burial to follow. 

Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation made in Frank’s memory to La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, PA or Mount Saint Joseph Academy in Flourtown, PA.