Francoise Aline Marie Roy Donohue September 9, 1935 – April 26, 2024

Provided.

Francoise Aline Marie Roy Donohue.

Francoise Aline Marie Roy Donohue, born on Sept. 9, 1935, in Montmagny, Quebec, Canada, passed away peacefully on April 26 at the age of 88.

Francoise was the beloved daughter of the late Louis O. Roy and Marie-Anne Duchesneau Roy. A talented pianist, she was accepted to the Conservatory of Music of Quebec, where she nurtured her passion for playing the piano. Among her favorite pieces to perform were Mozart's "Piano Sonata No. 16" and "Rondo alla Turca." Despite her musical talents, Francoise chose to pursue a career in nursing, graduating with honors from Laval University in Quebec in 1957.

In 1959, Francoise moved to the United States, settling in Los Angeles, California. It was here she met her husband, Joseph Edward Donohue, whom she married on Dec. 26, 1961. Joseph played a significant role in her life, helping her learn English, as she initially spoke only her native French. The two shared a deep and enduring love until Joseph's passing on May 30, 2016.

From 1981 to 1987, Francoise owned and operated an assisted living care home for elderly women in Fillmore, California, providing compassionate care and support to her residents. She continued working in the nursing profession until the age of 73, demonstrating her dedication and commitment to caring for others.

Francoise was a devoted and loyal Catholic, attending daily mass and finding strength in her faith. She was known for her incredible sense of humor, boundless energy, her love of animals and her passion for classical music.

Above all, Francoise was a loving, giving and devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her four children: Elizabeth and husband Tom Rigney of Tehachapi; Margaret and husband David Daniels of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Robert and girlfriend Amber Sprague of Bullhead City, Arizona; and Noreen and husband Jeff Miner of Las Vegas, Nevada. She also leaves behind 10 cherished grandchildren.

Francoise is preceded in death by her husband Joseph Donohue, her grandson Dominic (son of Elizabeth and Tom), her parents and 10 brothers and sisters.

Services were held at St. Malachy Church on Wednesday, May 22, officiated by Fr. Gregory J. Beaumont. Burial services were officiated by Fr. Thomas Nelson, O. Praem on the following day, May 23, in Ascension Cemetery in Lake Forest, California.

Francoise Aline Marie Roy Donohue's life was a testament to her resilience, compassion and unwavering faith. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her legacy of love and kindness lives on in her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Wood Family Funeral Service has been entrusted with her care.