Celebrating the Life of Harriette E. Pratt, 87, of Rochester, NH

Harriette E. Pratt, aged 87, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, surrounded by her loving children. Born on April 26, 1938, in Rochester, NH, she was the cherished daughter of the late Harry and Lena (Filiau) Paquette.

 

Harriette was the heart and soul of her family, leading with quiet strength and unwavering kindness. Her generous spirit and adventurous nature touched all who knew her. She found immense joy in spending time with family and friends and was deeply committed to various charitable causes.

 

Professionally, Harriette dedicated many years to Davidson Rubber – Textron and Gibbs Convenience Store. In her later years, she embraced entrepreneurship by establishing a wash, dry, and fold laundry service. Her passion for community involvement was evident through her active participation in Rochester Youth Sports, including East Side Little League, Rochester Youth Football, and Little Red Raiders. Her contributions were honored with an induction into the Rochester Sports Hall of Fame. Additionally, she was a vibrant member of the Rochester Senior Center, where she enjoyed her role on the decorating committee.

 

Harriette's adventurous spirit led her to travel extensively, visiting Italy, Britain, Ireland, and numerous destinations across the United States. She delighted in crafting, particularly crocheting and coloring, solving puzzles, visiting casinos, and spending serene days at White Lake State Park and York Beach.

 

She is survived by her children: Daniel D. Donahue of Rochester, NH; Kevin M. Donahue of Rochester, NH; Kelly L. Roman and husband Ricardo of Selma, NC; and John T. Donahue and wife JoAnn of Sandown, NH. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Shawn, Melanie, Keegan, and Trinidad, and her great-grandchildren, Autumn and Isaiah. She also leaves behind her siblings James (Sylvia), Gerald (Pauline), Robert (Beverly), Paul (Tami) Paquette, and Theresa (Michael) Palumbo, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members, including Rob, Ryan, and Brandon Small. She was predeceased by her husband Harvey in 1999, her beloved daughter-in-law Carol, and her brothers Henry, Owen, Everest, Ernest, Harold, and Howard.

 

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Harriette's life on Saturday, August 16, from 9 AM to 11 AM at the R.M. Edgerly Funeral Home, 86 S. Main St., Rochester, NH. A funeral service will follow at 11 AM in the chapel of the funeral home, with burial in the Rochester Cemetery.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Rochester Senior Center, an organization close to Harriette's heart.