Steven K Donaghy

Stephen “Steven” Donaghy, fondly known as “Papa D,” passed away on March 28, 2026, at the age of 68, after a long-fought battle with heart disease. He was deeply loved as a father, a friend, and the source of so much laughter, and his absence will be felt in ways words will never fully capture.

Steven was proud to be one of nine children in a large Italian-Irish family, born and raised on Grafton Hill. He leaves this life to join those who predeceased him, including his parents, Charles and Annette (Amoroso) Donaghy, and his siblings, Noreen Cormier, Margaret Setaro, Patricia, Samara, Richard, and James Donaghy. He is survived by his brother, Charles and his sister, Marie.

Steven is also survived by his former wives, Darlene and Sheila, and his longtime friends, David and Michael. He shared an unbreakable bond with his beloved companion of 11 years he leaves behind, his dog, Gracie Mae, “GM”. Above all, he is survived by his pride and joy, his “reason for living”, his two daughters, Stephanie Donaghy and Nicole Gleason, who meant everything to him.

Steven spent his life working as a licensed plumber, construction supervisor, and certified building operator. He dedicated much of his career to serving as a facilities director and safety manager for the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Most recently, Steve was employed by the Abby Kelley Foster Charter School District until declining health led to his retirement.

Steven enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycles, target shooting, playing golf, listening to music, and dining out, most notably at his favorite restaurant, Wright’s Chicken Farm. He was often heard saying, “It’s never wrong to go to Wright’s!” In his later years, he fondly enjoyed television nights with his close friend, Christine.

Steven cherished the time he spent with his family, and holiday gatherings were among his fondest memories. A natural joker, he always had people laughing - his humor, quick wit, and ability to lighten any room will be remembered by all who knew him.

Calling hours, followed by a short memorial service, will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel located at 370 Plantation Street Worcester MA. All who knew and loved Steven are welcome to attend.

If you knew Steven, you knew he was not a man of formal faith, but a man of family. In keeping with that, there will be no Mass or funeral procession. Instead, friends and family are invited to gather afterward to share in remembrance of his life through stories, smiles, and laughter, just as he would have wanted. Details of this gathering will be provided by the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances in his name can be made to the American Heart Association, 93 Worcester Street, Wellesley, MA. www.heart.com/donate