08/05/2026
Michael James Donahue
December 19, 1954 - August 5, 2026
~ Obituary ~
Michael James “Mike” Donahue, 71, was born on December 19, 1954, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and passed away on August 5, 2026, at his home while under hospice care after a long battle with heart disease.
Mike moved to Texas in his early twenties and made Caddo Mills his home for many years. He shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Shirley Barnes Donahue. Together they raised their son, Jacob Earl Donahue, and lovingly helped raise their granddaughter, Nevaeh Morris.
Mike is survived by his beloved wife, Shirley; his son, Jacob and wife Stephanie; brothers Kevin, Dale and Patrick Donahue, all of Michigan; his sisters, Susan Shayevitz of New York, and Linda Hawks of Texas, In addition, his grandchildren, Brandi Barekas and husband, Andreás; Jacob Isaiah Donahue; Jace Donahue, Nevaeh Morris, and Chloe and Autumn Fox, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, cherished friends, and his church family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Theresa Donahue, his brother, Charles “Chuck” Donahue, and his stepchildren, Lisa Dobbs Strand, grandson Jeffery, and Billy Dobbs.
Mike retired about a year ago after a successful career as a hotel construction superintendent. Although he retired from construction, he never retired from his calling. For many years, he faithfully served as pastor of Followers of Christ Church in Wills Point, Texas, where he devoted himself to sharing God’s Word and caring for his church family.
A man of many talents, Mike was an accomplished artist, draftsman, and carpenter whose creativity and craftsmanship were admired by many. He will also be remembered for his unique personality, quick wit, and remarkable ability to make people laugh. His sense of humor, kindness, and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Mike’s life was defined by his unwavering faith, his devotion to his family, and his willingness to serve others. Whether through his ministry, his work, or simply sharing a laugh with those around him, he touched countless lives. His legacy of love, faith, compassion, and humor will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026 at 9:30 am with a Funeral to follow at 10:30 am at Lynch Funeral Home, 2203 Gilmer Street, Caddo Mills, Texas with burial at Princeton Cemetery, Princeton, Texas. Pallbearers include Joshua Yeager, Ryan Smith, Jason Bennett, Jeff Blanco, Zach Hobbs, Donald Lisk and Jacob Donahue.
Mike was dearly loved by all who knew him and will be profoundly missed by his loving family, devoted friends including his church family, and all whose lives were blessed by knowing him.
