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Gladys M. Donahue, 92, a longtime resident of Madison, passed away at Brightview Senior Living in Randolph, New Jersey, on April 20 with family at her side. She is survived by her daughters Pat Van Deventer of Madison and Terry Donahue Egler of Chester, New Jersey; her son Mike Donahue of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; her sons-in-law the Honorable Patrick Clifford of Madison and Alan Egler of Chester, New Jersey; her ten grandchildren, Megan, Sean, Michael, Katie, Brendan, Kelly, Caitlin, Ryan, Kerry, and Bridgette; and her six great-grandchildren, Riley, Shea, Lydia, Logan, Paige, and Oliver. Gladys is also survived by Sue Clifford, her children Kelly and Stephen, and Dick Van Deventer, all of whom she loved as family. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Edward (Ned) Donahue, and her beloved daughter Christine (Donahue) Clifford.

Gladys was born on Dec. 21, 1924, in Waterbury, to her parents John and Theresa (Kaunitis) Urban. Gladys was a loving, devoted mother who stayed at home to raise her four children. She later worked for the family business, Sterling Furniture, in Norwalk, and as the assistant manager of the Madison Beach Hotel for sixteen years. Gladys and her husband Ned were happily married for 56 years until Ned’s passing in 2006. In addition to their love for one another, they shared a passion for the New York Yankees, enjoyed vacationing in Bermuda, and were regulars at the Café Lafayette and the Wharf.

Gladys was an avid Frank Sinatra fan, cherished her neighbors and friends, and cheered on her children and grandchildren at their many school activities and sporting events. She was a devout Catholic and a life-long Democrat who volunteered for many years at the election polls in Madison. Ever stylish, Gladys was rarely seen without her pearls, matching earrings, and signature coral pink lipstick. But above all, Gladys will be remembered for her sweet and kind nature and beautiful spirit. She was always gracious and generous, simply a lovely soul. She will live forever in our hearts and will be deeply missed.

The family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff of Brightview Senior Living and Grace Hospice for their compassionate care and the kindness they showed to Gladys.

Visitation will be held on April 28 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home, 825 Boston Post Rd., Madison. A memorial service will be held on April 29 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Margaret’s Church, 24 Academy St., Madison.