Worcester-based multi-platinum composer Donnie Demers died on December 22 at the age of 66. Suffering from muscular dystrophy since childhood, he pursued his passion for music with determination, refusing to be defined by his illness.
He grew up in a modest and large family, alongside his brother Jimmy, with whom he shared a very close musical and personal relationship. Self-taught on the piano since childhood, Donnie composed while Jimmy interpreted his songs, forming an inseparable duo.
Over the years, Donnie has distinguished himself by his exceptional talent as a melodist and the depth of his texts, hailed by recognised figures in the industry. Despite a less publicised success than some contemporaries, he has marked the minds with his authenticity and sensitivity.
Among his highlights: his performance at Jerry Lewis’ telethon in 1982, the proclamation of « Donnie Demers Day » in 1983 and his participation in the Special Olympic Games in 2007. He also collaborated on musical projects with his brother, including the album « Dream a Little ».In his last years, despite growing respiratory problems, he continued to write many songs. His sudden death deeply upset his loved ones.
Jimmy Demers now intends to publicise the work of his brother, whom he considers one of the greatest, unjustly unknown songwriters.
See this article in Worcester Magazine:
https://www.worcestermag.com/story/entertainment/music/2026/01/02/multiplatinum-songwriter-and-worcester-native-and-donnie-demers-dies/87974888007/