In loving memory of

Jaclyn Torrice Donovan

10/21/80- 04/02/2026

Jaclyn grew up in Rhode Island and was a proud Native American woman who celebrated her combined Mohawk, Italian, and Irish heritages. She was a Native dancer at powwows, a singer of traditional indigenous songs on Red Moon Drum, and a native crafts maker. Her Native name was “Bright Star”, given in Ceremony by Chief Big Horn (Lakota).

Jaclyn embraced and was guided by Native American spirituality throughout her life. She grew up as a member of The American Indian Federation, Inc., an intertribal organization co-founded by her late paternal great grandmother, Anna Clear Water Riccitelli. Her late paternal grandmother, Margaret Still Water Donovan, was also an active member, as was her late aunt, Anna White Thorn Cesaro.

Her father, Arthur WalkingTurtle Donovan, served as Chief of the AIF between 2008-2012.  

The American Indian Federation members generously welcomed all who wished to learn about Native American practices into the group. Jaclyn joyfully shared her indigenous cultural knowledge with newcomers and young people.

Jaclyn leaves behind a large, extended family, including her late mother, Cheryl Donovan; Father, Arthur Thomas Donovan and step mother, Joan Merwyn; Brother, Jesse Donovan and sister in law, Stephanie Donovan; Children: Daniel Egleston, Anna Donovan, Raven Donovan, Oliver Jordan and Joshua Donovan. Jaclyn has many beloved aunts, uncles, and cousins who mourn her loss.

She also leaves behind her life partner, Dennis Early.

May Jaclyn walk in peace with the Ancestors.

Her visitation will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, from 4pm to 7pm at Mount Pleasant Funeral and Cremation Service, 168 Academy Ave, Providence. For further information and condolences, please visit MOUNTPLEASANTFH.COM.