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Pearl Insurance joins CSEA in mourning the loss of the remarkable Danny Donohue, a fearless advocate for working people, and a beloved friend to many.

Danny led CSEA for over 25 years and served the union for more than four decades before passing away on August 10, 2025.

Danny valued the long-standing relationship with Pearl Insurance, believing the Insurance Program was beneficial for all CSEA members. Working closely with Pearl Insurance over the years, Danny made dear friends here. Pearl Insurance honors Danny Donohue's legacy.

Rest in peace, Danny.

CSEA is mourning the loss of former CSEA President Danny Donohue, a towering figure in the labor movement, a fearless advocate for working people and a beloved friend to so many people. Donohue, who led CSEA for more than 25 years and served the union for over four decades, passed away on Aug. 10, 2025.

Donohue was the longest-serving president in CSEA’s history and one of the most influential labor leaders of his generation. Rising from his roots as a “truck driver from Brooklyn,” he never lost his blunt style of speaking, quick wit or deep commitment to the people he served. He was bold, unafraid to speak his mind and never hesitant to take on a fight when CSEA members were being treated unfairly.

“CSEA is greatly saddened by the loss of Danny Donohue,” said CSEA President Mary E. Sullivan. “Danny was a dear friend to me for decades, a mentor and a partner in countless battles for working people. I worked alongside Danny through tough negotiations, political fights, and moments when the odds seemed stacked against us. He was fearless when someone was wronging his members. He’d let them know it, whether they were the Governor or a local supervisor, and he never backed down.

Danny also had a gift for using humor to make his point and keep people going through hard times. Sometimes, he’d break the tension in a tough meeting with a joke or a sharp one-liner. He believed deeply in CSEA and its members, and he gave everything he had to make their lives better.

Under Donohue’s leadership, CSEA won landmark victories for its members. He had an unmatched ability to rally members and speak truth to power, famously declaring CSEA “the best damn union in the country.”

Beyond his accomplishments at CSEA, Donohue was a respected voice in the broader labor movement, serving as Vice President of the New York State AFL-CIO and as an AFSCME International Vice President. His influence extended far beyond contract tables and legislative halls—he helped shape a generation of labor activists and inspired thousands to step up and lead.

Donohue retired from the presidency in 2019, leaving behind a union stronger, more united and more determined than ever to defend the rights of its members.

CSEA extends our deepest condolences to his wife Irene, his children Amy, Shawn, and Megan, and to all who knew and loved him.

💔 Pearl Insurance pays tribute to Danny Donohue, who was called home to God on August 10th.

Danny Donohue - a man of humble beginnings from Brooklyn, born June 27th, 1944. His journey took him to Central Islip’s Psychiatric Center, where he met his wife Irene, a nurse in training. 💕 Over 56 years of love with Irene marked his life.

Danny's impactful career began in 1975 with the Civil Service Employees Association. Though he'd call himself "a truck driver from Brooklyn," he led with distinction - serving 7 terms as CSEA Statewide President over 26 years, making him the longest-serving president in the union’s history. He also served as Vice President of the New York State AFL-CIO and International Vice President of AFSCME. 🏆

For over 40 years, Danny practiced servant leadership, visiting members across the state, referring to CSEA members as the "best damn union." 💪 He championed workplace protections, domestic partnership rights, and reminded all that CSEA members keep New York running. At his 2019 retirement, he was celebrated by members and politicians alike - notably receiving boxing gloves for being a formidable opponent fighting for his members. 🥊

Pearl Insurance honors Danny Donohue's legacy of dedication, leadership, and service. Rest in peace, Danny.

Geordie is waiting to greet you, love.

Are you rooting for a specific team, or do you watch more for the commercials/half-time show? 🏈📺

As you begin the new year, consider taking a personal inventory to help ensure things run smoothly in 2023. Don’t forget that when you experience changes in your lifestyle—like a marriage, pregnancy, job change, or move—your insurance may be affected. So, take time to review your policies to be sure you have adequate coverage.

Today we begin a new year full of different experiences, challenges, learning opportunities, and more! What exciting things are in store for you this year? 😊