John O'Donovan Obituary

John Henry O'Donovan, of a Maryland horse breeding family, has died. He was 61 years old.

Born in Baltimore City to Hugh and Achsah O'Donovan, he grew up on Grasslands Farm in northern Baltimore County and attended Gilman School, graduating in 1979. He graduated from Washington College in 1984. Mr. O'Donovan had a career in finance.

John's close friend George Kelly stated, "There is no better friend than John O'Donovan, and he is beloved by many. He defined what it means to be loyal, generous, and kind. We have shared many adventures together to the shores of Ireland, Nantucket, Fisher's Island, the Chesapeake Bay and the Caribbean, and we can take solace that he has now rowed his boat ashore to his final destination."

Other friends have described John as "fiercely loyal". He impressed upon his own sons the value of friendship and the importance of maintaining strong relationships.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly thirty years, Lisa Bryan O'Donovan, two sons Hugh Jenkins O'Donovan and John Henry O'Donovan, Jr, sister Betty O'Donovan Gurskis and brother-in-law Joe Gurskis, sister Achsah O'Donovan and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held in the Spring. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be sent to the Gilman School of Baltimore.