Edward "Buster" Charles Donovan
Photo
Edward's obituary
Edward Donovan
December 14, 1931 – August 30, 2025
Edward Donovan, a dedicated public servant, passionate advocate, and vibrant soul, passed away on August 30, 2025, at the age of 93 in Eustis, Florida.
Born and raised in South Boston, Massachusetts, Edward spent the last 33 years of his life in Florida, where he continued to inspire those around him with his unwavering commitment to service and community. A proud veteran having served on the USS Missouri and lifelong supporter of law enforcement, Edward served as a Boston Police Officer for 32 years. During his tenure, he founded the Boston Police Stress Program, a pioneering initiative designed to help officers manage the emotional toll of their work.
Edward was a man of many talents. He was a professional photographer, locksmith, and internationally recognized speaker on stress and burnout. His expertise led him to lecture around the world and appear on numerous television programs, including The Phil Donahue Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. He co-founded and served as President of Seafield 911, a treatment program dedicated to supporting law enforcement professionals facing challenges with addiction and stress.
After retiring in 1989, Edward continued to lecture for another decade before embarking on a new chapter as an actor. He appeared in various films, television shows, and commercials. He also became co-owner of Focus In Newspaper and later founded https://InFocus-magazine.com, continuing his passion for storytelling and media.
Edward was a proud member of several professional organizations, including the International Institute of Stress, the American Institute of Stress, the Screen Actors Guild, the Florida Motion Picture and Television Association, and Women in Film and Television.
A devoted Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots fan, Edward never missed a game. He found joy in swimming in his pool, he loved going to Disney to act like a kid again, and spending time with his beloved Weimaraner, Lily, and with his children and grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his daughter Linda Cianfrocca (2024), his brother George Donovan, and his sisters Dottie McCarthy, Louise Ketterle, and Peggy Cormier.
Edward is survived by Anne Waisanen of Eustis, FL, and his six children: Susan Donovan, Michael Donovan, Patrick Donovan, and Edward Donovan Jr of Massachusetts, Dennis Donovan of California, and Mary Donovan of Florida. He also leaves behind his sisters Winnie McDonough (Massachusetts), Betty Ann Donovan (New Jersey), and Helen Dearden (Florida), along with 14 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
Edward Donovan’s legacy of compassion, resilience, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Please join us in celebrating the life of Edward "Buster" Donovan
Where: Zoom
Sunday September 14th at 5pm Eastern Time
Meeting ID: 844 3393 4876
Call in number: 305-224-1968
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/844…
There will also be a local memorial service October 12 at 1 pm
Eustis Community Center
601 Northshore Drive
Eustis FL 32726
Send to someone
Want to stay updated?
Send flowers
Send flowers
Share this memorial website
Share with others
