The Rev. Howard Patrick Donahue, 89, joined the Heavenly Father on Wednesday (July 27, 2016). He was born on Sept. 21, 1926, in Pennsylvania and had 11 brothers and sisters.
He proudly served in World War II as a tank driver for the U.S. Army. The Rev. Donahue received his formal education at Asbury College in Wilmore, Ky., and at Emory Candler School of Theology in Georgia.
He served the United Methodist Church in many capacities, including senior pastor at Rantoul United Methodist Church and district superintendent of The Peoria Conference where his charge included over 100 Illinois churches.
He and his wife, Merwin Gaffner Donahue, enjoyed a 65-year marriage; she survives. They have two children who survive, Darlene Donahue Button (Neil Oakley) and Debra Sue Donahue (Larry Schnell).
He is also survived by grandson, Patrick (Eboni) Button, and great-grandchildren, Keyon Button, Silver Button and Ivory Button. Surviving siblings are Dana Kalmik, Frances Lindsey, Norman Donahue and Roger Donahue.
He was preceded in death by his son, David Lynn Donahue.
The celebration of Howard's life will be held at the Rantoul United Methodist Church, on Wednesday, Aug. 3. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. followed by the funeral at 11 a.m. Graveside honorarium will follow at Meadowbrook Cemetery, after which all are welcome to join the family for a luncheon at the Methodist Church.
Donations can be made to the Rantoul United Methodist Church Youth Group to honor his lifelong service to the church and the community.
Arrangements are being handled by Lux Memorial Chapel, Rantoul.