Phillips Jones Donohue

Phillips (Bink) Jones Donohue passed away on December 1, 2023. Born at South County Hospital on September 28, 1935 to Harold and Grace (Jones) Donohue, he is survived by his two daughters, Holly Foley (Michael) and Laurie Nayman (Mark). Phil was predeceased by his son Mark Donohue (Leila) and his only sibling Jay Donohue (Carolyn). He was a grandfather to five: Lauren, Courtney, Ryan, Cole and Troy and a friend to many including Stesha, Marion, Gerry and Bill. Phil was a true "Swamp Yankee. In his 88 years, it was only on rare occasions that he ever left South County--- he loved it here. While he did some traveling to beautiful places like Hawaii and Ireland, it was always South County that he loved to return to. Phil graduated from South Kingstown High School in 1954. His HVAC career started in Wakefield at the family business, Donohue Refrigeration. This was followed by employment at Coca Cola in Peace Dale. His expertise in refrigeration led to his career at The University of Rhode Island, from which he retired in 2000. Many critical academic experiments along with local restaurants relied on Phil to keep the old compressors running. He was a lifetime gardener and always enjoyed being outdoors. Phil was proudly awarded a medal for his volunteer efforts with the Conservation Commission and his desire to help preserve Ninigret Park. He loved the wonders of science and enjoyed listening to music, even teaching himself multiple songs on his guitar. In his younger days, he played tennis, skied and always enjoyed being around one of his many horses. Danny Boy was a favorite---a true cowboy in every way. Once, on a whim and a quick lesson, Phil jumped out of a plane. He was always a fan of a good practical joke and he made solid use of props. Win or lose, he loved the Red Sox and his favorite player Ted Williams. His favorite medium to follow a game was radio because it reminded him of his youth. Some knew Phil for his commitment to an afternoon libation. With a twinkle in his eye he loved telling stories and meeting people, always finding common ground with a stranger. A friend for life. Phil grew up in a simpler world and he missed it. The family would like to thank the entire staff at South County Nursing and Rehab for their care of Phillips. Following Phil's request, there will be no memorial service and his final resting place will be private. In lieu of flowers, Phil would ask that we all try to be nicer to one another. Find that common ground.