Donna A. Ford

Donna A. Ford

She was loyal to a fault and her friendships meant the world. Stop in any time: Donna always had a pot of coffee ready for you. Her cooking was magical; if Donna boiled water it somehow tasted better and her meatballs were the best. She was able to share her love through her career; she taught special needs children in Edgewater Park for 19 years and inspired with her faith as a CCD teacher at Corpus Christi. Though she only had one boy all of Nick’s friends considered her their mom as well; she was often found on the sidelines cheering them all on. In her younger years she travelled with her husband; always somewhere warm, especially Hawaii where they spent their honeymoon and their 25th anniversary. But her favorite thing was to gather her family close to her; she hosted the holidays and loved Christmas the most. But, of course, holiday or not, her home was always decorated, full of wreaths and flower arrangements. During relaxing times she definitely knew how to unwind enjoying the occasional shot of Tequila or a Vodka Martini. Donna enjoyed catching up with The Young and the Restless and had a soft spot for Joe Walsh
She’d meet a handsome guy named Brian and share a 37-year marriage blessed with two children: Rachael Marie and Nicholas Andrew. Donna is survived by her mother, Theresa Minniti; her brother, Paul Minniti; and her niece, Melissa Minniti. She was predeceased by her father, Francesco Minniti.
Services celebrating 60 great years will be held privately. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Jude’s Hospital (stjude.org) or Samaritan Hospice (samaritannj.org), 5 Eves Dr., Suite 300, Marlton NJ 08053.

24 Comments

  1. Joe and Donna Britt says:

    We are so very sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with your family.

  2. Lisa Bell Scarperia says:

    The BEST friend anyone could ask for. I am sooo blessed to have Donna in my life. Will always remember our beach days and our long conversations sunning by the pool. I will miss you dear friend.

  3. Guy Reid says:

    Brian, Rachael and Nick I am very sorry for the loss of your wife and mother. Your family is in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

  4. Sandy Foster says:

    Sadly, we only know Donna through her daughter, Rachel. She sounded like a lovely, caring and fun lady. She will truly be missed. Our prayers are with the Minnitti and Ford families during this difficult time. Take care!
    The Fosters

  5. Paul & Tracy Dube says:

    Brian,

    We are so sorry for your loss and keeping you in our prayers.

    Caring thoughts are with you,

    Paul & Tracy Dube

  6. Julie Miller says:

    Such a strong and supporting woman to many of us who had the pleasure of working with her and learning from her. My deepest condolences to her family during this sad time. Prayers for strength and happiness as they mourn this great woman.

  7. Renee Andrussier says:

    What a beautiful tribute to a beautiful person! Brian, Rachael, Nick and family know that many near and far are thinking of you and wish you strength, comfort and peace.

  8. Roy Rakszawski says:

    My condolences to Donna’s family. Donna was a cherished member of our staff. She worked hard for the students and cared for them sincerely. She will be missed.

  9. Marylou Wickizer says:

    I’m very sad to hear this. Donna was a good person.She was fun loving ,kind ,and loyal. I have many fond memories of her as a school coworker, PTC member ,and friend. I’m so sorry for your loss.

  10. Greg says:

    Our thoughts and prayers go out to your family during this difficult time, Marie, Mason, Allie and I all wish you the very best.

  11. Marie Myers says:

    Donna was an angel on earth. It’s so rare to find someone who truly embodies being a good human, a good mom, a good wife, and a good friend. Donna was all of the above and more and I’ll miss her. It was an honor to know her, I hope I can be half the human she was, and my thoughts are with the Ford family.

  12. Gevona Lumpkin says:

    Sending the family love and prayers, I am so sorry for your loss. I loved seeing her come to Bottom Dollar she would love on everyone! We would laugh and laugh, she made our days. She will be missed 💜

  13. Lori Rebilas says:

    My thoughts and prayers go out to Donna’s family. We worked at the school together and she was a wonderful, dependable and caring assistant. RIP Donna

  14. Lyn Arket says:

    My thoughts and prayers are with you Brian, Rachael,and Nick. I’m so honored to have known Donna both in and out of school. She was always funny and caring. Heaven has gained another angel. She will be missed by many.

  15. Michell amd Bob McGinn says:

    You will be missed so much beautiful friend. To the family you leave behind my heart is broken for you all. We celebrate the amazing person you were. So honored to call you our friend.

    Live you all!! 🙏

  16. Lysa Meduri Leiponis says:

    My heart goes out to Brian, Rachael, Nicky, Theresa and Paul. My memories of Donna are of her quick wit, bright smile, and passion for her family. She could make anyone laugh, and knew when you needed to. She will always be in my heart. Rest in peace cousin.

  17. Cheryl Bocox says:

    May God bless all of Paula’s family, friends and loved ones, may he hold their heart in his hands and keep them strong during this difficult time. I’ve had the honor of knowing Donna since our boys were young, and years to follow working Magowan Elementary school. Donna was the first person to show me ropes in the classroom. She said to me, “Never let them know you’re upset, they will walk all over you.” She greeted my youngest at the front doors every morning.
    Rest easy Donna 🙏🏼🤍

  18. Janet Fox says:

    I had the pleasure to work with Donna several times in the classroom at Edgewater Park. She was a dedicated and hard working professional who cared about all of us – big and small. Wishing peace and comfort to the family. May your wealth of happy memories shared with Donna bring you strength now and as you move forward.

  19. Hugh Algeo says:

    My thoughts and prayers I with you, condolences .

  20. Regina and Family says:

    To my neighbor, my friend, and most importantly apart of our family-I am deeply saddened by your transition. Over the years we have shared incredible moments and laughter that will always remain close to my heart forever- from watching the kids grow up, and us going out for “bread” lol. Deepest condolences to Brian, Rachael and Nick. Love you neighbor.

  21. Katie and Mark McCann says:

    We were so very sorry to hear this news. Donna was such a kind lady and a shining example of what makes a great mom! Our thoughts are with Rachel and Nick as well as Brian during these heart breaking times. We pray for each of your strength to heal with the memories of your amazing mom to comfort you.

  22. Joe ODonnell says:

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time

  23. lisa mitchell says:

    to Donna’s family I am her cousin lisa minniti Mitchell so sorry to learn of her passing haven’t seen her since high school but we always had nice conversations in school may she rest in peace with no more pain