Donna Hayford, a loving wife, mother, and steadfast supporter of those
around her, passed away on June 15, 2025, in Clermont, Florida. She
was 58 years old.
Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Donna grew up in Glendale and
graduated from Nicolet High School. With determination and drive, she
worked her way up to become general manager of a business supply
store - a position she held with pride and professionalism.
Later in life, Donna chose to step back from her career to focus on what
mattered most: her family. She dedicated herself fully to caring for her
husband, 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 a
wonderful cook - her French toast became a family favorite - and a true
artist when it came to handmade birthday cards, scrapbooks, photo
albums, and crafts. Her thoughtful, personal creations brought joy to
friends and family and captured memories with love and care.
Donna loved animals and had many pets including the family cats
Felix, Elainey and Maria, and bunnies, Teddy and Zoey.
She had a special way of making others feel seen and supported. A fierce
advocate for people with special needs, Donna founded a bowling group
in South Florida that created a welcoming space for individuals with
disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum. Her work and her
presence 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 of
saying "I love you,
" which now lives on among those she leaves
behind.
She is survived by her husband, Matthew Hayford Sr.; her son, Matthew
Hayford Jr.; her mother, Sandra; her father, Donald; her brother, Mark;
and her "bonus son,
" William. She is also lovingly remembered by
extended family and friends, especially in Waterford, Wisconsin, South
Florida, and Clermont, Florida.
Matthew Jr. will forever cherish their movie nights and time spent
together. Both he and Matthew Sr. will miss their Disney trips as a
family - memories full of joy, laughter, and love.
Donna's life was defined by kindness, strength, and selfless love. Her
legacy lives on in the hearts she touched, the traditions she inspired, and
the family she cherished.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family kindly asks that donations be made
to Club Elevate (https://liftdisability.net/donate) - a program close to
Donna's heart, where her son Matthew Jr. attends two to three times a
week. The organization supports individuals with special needs and
continues the kind of work Donna championed. When donating, please
click the dedication options and make your gift in memory of Donna
Hayford.