Evelyn Ruth Donnachie (nee Boyd), passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024, in Philadelphia, PA, at the age of 85. Born on August 30, 1939, Evelyn’s life was a testament to the power of kindness, faith, and the enduring strength of family bonds.
Evelyn’s journey began in Clementon, New Jersey, where she blossomed into a bright and caring individual. She was a proud graduate of Overbrook Regional High School, and her commitment to her community was evident from her early years. Evelyn’s professional life was marked by her dedication to the well-being of others, as showcased by her cherished years driving a bus for special needs children in the Clayton School District and her vigilant service as a school crossing guard. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone through in her successful venture with Empress Pearls Jewelry, where she shared her passion for beauty and craftsmanship.
Evelyn’s heart was always with her family. She was a devoted wife to her late husband, William Donnachie, for a remarkable 66 years. Together, they raised a loving family, including their children, Rev. Brian (Marianne) Donnachie of Woodstown, NJ, Celeste (Kenneth) Gormley of Williamstown, NJ, Rev. Vincent Donnachie of Reading, PA, and were pre-deceased by Steven (Deirdre) Donnachie of Clayton, NJ, and William Roger Donnachie. Evelyn’s legacy continued to flourish through her adored grandchildren: Alyse, Amy, Sara, Ken, Zachary, Brianna, Neena, Daniel, Greta, Sean, Andrew, Evan, and Rachel. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of each great-grandchild: Kilian, Ronan, Kenny, Caleb, Levi, Liam, Adalynn, Michael, Michael, Aurora, and Alastor.
Evelyn’s zest for life was infectious. She was adored by her many friends and family members, who treasured her presence at countless family parties, gatherings, and holiday celebrations. A great lover of pets, Evelyn’s home was never without the companionship of her beloved animals. In the 1970s, she enjoyed the camaraderie of her bowling league and expressed her love for music as a soprano in the Sweet Adelines Chorus, a passion that continued when she joined the Shades of Harmony Chorus in 2002, remaining an active and joyful member until 2024.
Travel and adventure were amongst Evelyn’s favorite pursuits. She and William were avid campers, or “glampers,” exploring the beauty of Maine, Florida, Arizona, and many places in between. Their RV was often the heart of extended family glamping trips, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Evelyn also shared countless adventures with her sister Ginger and daughter Celeste, forming an inseparable trio that brought laughter and joy wherever they went.
Above all, Evelyn was a woman of profound faith. A member of the Living Hope Worship Center in Swedesboro, NJ, she was steadfast in her love for the Lord Jesus Christ. Her Bible was a constant companion, and her prayers were a source of comfort and guidance. Her devotion was the cornerstone of her existence, and it is with great peace that her loved ones know she is now with her Savior forever.
Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM, and again on Thursday, September 26, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the Living Hope Worship Center, 1566 Center Square Road, Swedesboro, NJ 08085. Funeral service on Thursday at 11:00 AM at the church. Interment will follow at Cedar Green Cemetery. Sign the guestbook at BarclayFuneralHome.net.
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