Rachael Cecile Couvillon Donovan

Rachael Cecile Couvillon Donovan, 72, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. She was born on December 9, 1953. For those who had the pleasure of meeting her, Rachael left an immediate impression with her genuine smile and her love for life.

Rachael devoted her life to children and learning. A kindergarten teacher, she was known for her steady kindness, patience, and the way she made every child feel seen and capable. She believed the earliest school years mattered deeply, and she poured that belief into her classroom each day. Rachael was a proud graduate of Northwestern State University of Louisiana, and she carried her love of learning and service into her work and into the life she built with her family.

On January 16, 1982, Rachael married Brian Joseph Donovan. Together, Rachael and Brian explored the world, and Rachael wanted to experience all that the Good Lord has to offer. She shared that spirit with her children and passed on a simple sentiment that remained close to her heart: home is where the heart is. Brian, an engineer and attorney, graduated from Kings Point and earned his law degree from Syracuse University. He preceded her in death on April 13, 2024.

Rachael is survived by her daughter, Meaghan Marie Cook, and Meaghan’s husband, Benjamin Cook, along with their twin girls, Aubrey Marie Cook and Isla Grace Cook; and by her son, Michael John Donovan, and Michael’s wife, Yanqian Donovan, along with their two boys, Ledger John Donovan and Lyrik John Donovan. Rachael’s four grandchildren brought her great joy, and she treasured every moment with them. She taught her children and grandchildren, by example, the importance of family and love.

Rachael will be remembered for the warmth she brought to her family, the gentleness she shared with friends and colleagues, and the lasting impact she made on the many children she taught and encouraged.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at St. Anne Catholic Church, 17315 Lionel Road, in Cow Island, Abbeville, Louisiana. A Memorial Visitation will be held at the church beginning at 10:00 a.m., with a Rosary to be recited at 11:30 a.m. A reception will follow the Mass at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Kaplan, 1007 North Lejeune Avenue.

Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonrouge.com