Remembering James H. Donovan

Sixty-six year-old James H. Donovan died two decades ago from colon cancer. Donovan left an impressive legacy, in his role as State Senator for many years working hard for education and transportation policy from around 1965 until 1990.  He retired a few months before he passed away due to the weakening from the illness.  On a personal level, Donovan fought an extremely tough battle against his illness.  Following his death, Gov. Mario M. Cuomo put out the order for all flags on state buildings to be lowered to half-staff, as a symbol of respect and grieving for Donovan who battled a “courageous struggle to overcome his illness [which] served as an inspiration to us all.”  It is clear from all his vast achievements, that James H. Donovan died the way he lived; with tremendous dignity and a show of inspirational strength.