David W. Donovan, 76, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, with his wife by his side.

Raised in Lebanon, Ohio, David was a graduate of Lebanon High School. He continued his studies at The Ohio State University, majoring in Music Composition and Education, and later served a term on the Lebanon City Schools Board of Education, setting the foundation for a lifelong devotion to music, teaching, and community service.

His dedication to learning and community enrichment extended far beyond the classroom, shaping the cultural life of Lebanon for decades. In 1991, David founded the Lebanon Area Community Chorus, which later grew into the Lebanon Symphony Orchestra & Chorus. As the ensemble's founder, Music Director, and Conductor, he led the organization through decades of artistic growth. Under his baton, the orchestra and chorus performed a broad and ambitious repertoire, including Verdi's Requiem, Handel's Messiah, Orff's Carmina Burana, and Richard Einhorn's Voices of Light: The Passion of Joan of Arc, featuring the acclaimed vocal ensemble Anonymous 4, among many other major orchestral and choral works.

David was passionate about providing opportunities for young artists, frequently featuring students and emerging musicians—many from area universities—in soloist roles. His belief in nurturing the next generation of performers shaped the careers and confidence of many.

Throughout his career, David also collaborated with an extraordinary array of guest artists and organizations, forming meaningful partnerships that enriched both performers and audiences. These collaborations included the Cincinnati Opera, Central State University Chorus under the direction of Jeremy Winston; Tom Sparough, "The Space Painter"; Magic Circle Mime Co.; pianist Frederick Moyer; ballet tech of ohio®; Eight Days a Week (Beatles tribute band); and numerous other artists and ensembles whose talents brought color, humor, and depth to the orchestra's performances.

A gentle and humble soul, David lived simply, thought deeply, and gave generously. He was known for his quiet talent, his love of history, music, and woodworking. Many will remember his dry sense of humor—filled with jokes, including more than a few groaners—along with his warmth, kindness, and steady presence that touched everyone who knew him.

David was preceded in death by his father, William Donovan; his mother, Marjorie Donovan; and his sister, Kathe Donovan.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Carol Donovan; sons Brody Donovan and Grahm Donovan; stepchildren Jennifer Poe-Perry (Colt) and Austin Poe (Angie); brother Daniel Donovan and sister-in-law Regina Flanagan; and grandchildren Wrangler Donovan, Mini Donovan, Adrien Poe, Siena Poe, Emerson Perry, and Blake Poe.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026 | 4:00 P.M., at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church, 232 E. Main Street, Lebanon, Ohio. Reception following service.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honor David's memory to consider a contribution to the Spikes K9 Fund for K9 law enforcement dogs at Spikesk9fund.org or to the Warren County Humane Association, the Lebanon Food Pantry, or the Lebanon Theatre Company. You may also choose to honor him through a small act of kindness or by listening to a piece of music that brings his memory to mind.