Michele Denise del Pilar

We regretfully announce Michele Denise del Pilar, 53, loving mother, daughter, aunt, and friend, passed away at her home in Annapolis on November 15th, 2022 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

Michele was born in Lexington Park, MD on June 12th, 1969 to Beverly Allan and Virgilio del Pilar.

Michele was a 1987 graduate of Great Mills High School. Following graduation, she went on to receive a degree in Graphic Design from the Art Institute of Philadelphia in 1991. She would continue to study art for the rest of her life.

She also received a degree in dental hygiene from Allegany College of Maryland in 1997 and worked as a hygienist in both St. Mary’s County and Annapolis.

Michele had many dreams and when she began dating Patrick Donovan in high school, they strived to make their dreams a reality. They were married in 1993 and had two children, Miranda Shay Donovan and Jack Patrick Donovan. They worked hard together to build several businesses, including Marine Technologies Inc. in Baltimore and the Tiki Bar in Solomons Island. They were married for 19 years.

After beginning her art career in the print and design field, she began to study fine art painting. Immersing herself in study, she sought instruction from some of the area’s best and most knowledgeable teachers. She was a professionally trained portrait, figurative, and still life painter who was juried into numerous exhibitions across the country, receiving honors and awards for her paintings. She dedicated her life to her work and rigorous practice of her skills.

Michele was one of the strongest women to ever walk this earth. She was a fiercely dedicated mother to both of her children, raising them to go on to accomplish great things. Family came first and was above all else to her, a value she instilled in all those around her and spent her entire life practicing. When she wasn’t filling her home with warmth and love, she could be found in her garden tending to her vegetables, herbs, and flowers. She also enjoyed baking and cooking, trying new recipes or bringing family recipes to life. The hole left by Michele’s absence is impossible to fill.

Michele is survived by her daughter and son, Miranda Donovan and Jack Donovan of Annapolis, MD; her sister, Christina Russell of Hollywood, MD; her parents, William and Beverley Randolph of Hollywood, MD; her nieces and nephews and many extended family and friends. Michele joins Miranda and Jack’s father, Patrick Donovan, in Heaven.