Obituary of Destinée Alia Donovan
To know Destinée was to know joy, courage and the beauty of a soul that shone far beyond her years, on July 2, 2015, Heaven gained a spark of laughter and light when it welcomed Destinée Alia Donovan of Kentville. Destinée’s life ended suddenly from Death by Misadventure (DBM), a tragic accident that took her far too soon. Born on January 2, 2000, she was the daughter of Angela (Balcom) Mason and Joseph Donovan.
Destinée was the heart and soul of her family, a bright light whose contagious laughter and presence brought joy to everyone around her. Though only 15, she was often described as an old soul – wise, tender, and deeply understanding in ways that left an impression on everyone she met. Destinée wasn’t just a daughter, granddaughter, niece or friend, she was so much more. She had a way of making people feel special, of turning simple moments into cherished memories, and bringing comfort with just her smile. Though Destinée spoke softly, her spirit was undeniably strong. She stood her ground for her friends and family, protecting and supporting those she loved with quiet courage. Even in moments of disagreement, Destinée had a remarkable ability to rise above, choosing compassion and understanding over conflict. You could say Destinée was the “mom” of her friend group, always available – day or night – to listen, to comfort, or to share advice that came straight from her wise and tender heart. You could talk to her about anything, and she had a way of making every word feel heard and every worry feel a little lighter. Whatever those dear to her needed, Destinée was ready and willing to give.
Destinée loved with her whole heart, keeping herself pure even through her own struggles. Her kindness and light touched everyone she met and will never be forgotten.
Destinée was often known for being quirky and free-spirited, a soul who moved through life with creativity and an imagination that inspired those around her. She was extremely artsy, pouring her heart into every creation, and her love for the water was legendary – her family often said she was like a mermaid, so at home and joyful when surrounded by it. Destinée’s creativity, gentle wisdom, and unrestrained spirit made her someone whose light could not be contained, leaving a lasting impression on every heart she touched. She had a rare gift for making friends with ease, and her caring heart extended to both people and animals alike. Though she loved adventure, she also treasured the quiet moments shared with those she held close, balancing her zest for life with an appreciation of gentle stillness.
Destinée’s playful spirit shone through in the little joys of life. She loved dancing, singing and baking with her beloved Nanny Balcom, filling those moments with laughter and warmth. She also had a flair for beauty and self-expression, earning her the nickname “Mascara Queen,” - her mother, Angela fondly recalls having to clean the mirror every morning after Destinée left for school, as she insisted on getting every eyelash just right, her nose pressed close to the glass in total focus. She also had a deep love for horses and made countless visits to her Aunt Heather and Uncle Grant’s ranch, dreaming of one day owning a ranch of her own.
Destinée’s energy and curiosity carried her into everything she tried, she tumbled and flipped with grace in gymnastics, ran with determination on the soccer field, and twirled in her crown as a 2007 Princess Attendant. She adventured with Girl Guides, shared stories and laughter as a reading buddy, and inspired others through Kids for Christ. She donated to the SPCA often while helping anyone she seen in need. Every activity was an adventure, every role a chance for her creativity, kindness, and light to shine, leaving a trail of joy and memories.
Like any spirited teenager, Destinée had a bucket list full of dreams waiting to bloom. She imagined the sun on her face as she traveled to Jamaica, felt the thrill of rebuilding a classic ’69 Chevy truck with her own hands, and pictured herself creating beauty in the world as a talented hairstylist with her very own salon. Every goal was a reflection of her adventurous heart, her creativity, and her unstoppable spirit—a reminder of the joy she found in dreaming big and daring to imagine all that life could hold.
Though Destinée left us far too soon, her laughter, light, and playful spirit will continue to dance in our hearts. She showed us how to find magic in everyday moments, to dream boldly, and to embrace life with joy and curiosity. Her love, kindness, and inspiration touched countless lives, leaving a legacy that will shimmer forever—a gentle reminder that even the briefest time on this earth can shine with endless wonder.
In addition to her parents, Destinée is survived by her maternal grandparents, Janet Balcom and Wayne “Bampie” Balcom (now deceased), paternal grandparents, Ron and Frances Donovan (now deceased) many aunts uncles and cousins ... but also an Antey Donna by choice as well as her beloved kitty’s, Tinkerbell and Reefer.
A Funeral Service had taken place on Thursday, July 9, 2015, donations in Destinée’s name may be made to the Kings County SPCA. Arrangements have been entrusted to the White Family Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Kentville.
