Donna Jean Hayford

Donna Hayford, a loving wife, mother, and steadfast supporter of thosearound her, passed away on June 15, 2025, in Clermont, Florida. Shewas 58 years old.Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Donna grew up in Glendale andgraduated from Nicolet High School. With determination and drive, sheworked her way up to become general manager of a business supplystore - a position she held with pride and professionalism.Later in life, Donna chose to step back from her career to focus on whatmattered most: her family. She dedicated herself fully to caring for herhusband, Matthew Sr., and their son, Matthew Jr., bringing warmth,support, and creativity into every part of their lives.Donna was a woman of many talents and boundless heart. She was awonderful cook - her French toast became a family favorite - and a trueartist when it came to handmade birthday cards, scrapbooks, photoalbums, and crafts. Her thoughtful, personal creations brought joy tofriends and family and captured memories with love and care.Donna loved animals and had many pets including the family catsFelix, Elainey and Maria, and bunnies, Teddy and Zoey.She had a special way of making others feel seen and supported. A fierceadvocate for people with special needs, Donna founded a bowling groupin South Florida that created a welcoming space for individuals withdisabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum. Her work and herpresence made a lasting impact on many lives.Donna also sparked a quiet but meaningful tradition in her family -encouraging openness, warmth, and the simple but powerful habit ofsaying “I love you,” which now lives on among those she leavesbehind.She is survived by her husband, Matthew Hayford Sr.; her son, MatthewHayford Jr.; her mother, Sandra; her father, Donald; her brother, Mark;and her “bonus son,” William. She is also lovingly remembered byextended family and friends, especially in Waterford, Wisconsin, SouthFlorida, and Clermont, Florida.Matthew Jr. will forever cherish their movie nights and time spenttogether. Both he and Matthew Sr. will miss their Disney trips as afamily - memories full of joy, laughter, and love.Donna's life was defined by kindness, strength, and selfless love. Herlegacy lives on in the hearts she touched, the traditions she inspired, andthe family she cherished.In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly asks that donations be madeto Club Elevate (https://liftdisability.net/donate) - a program close toDonna’s heart, where her son Matthew Jr. attends two to three times aweek. The organization supports individuals with special needs andcontinues the kind of work Donna championed. When donating, pleaseclick the dedication options and make your gift in memory of DonnaHayford.