With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Donna Hopfensperger Tirado, 73, who passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Donna was a graduate of Middletown High School North and carried throughout her life the warmth, compassion, and kindness that made her unforgettable to everyone who knew her. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, her devotion to her family, and above all, her unwavering love for Jesus.

Donna devoted much of her life to caring for and uplifting others, especially children. For many years, she faithfully served as a Sunday school teacher and lovingly hosted a Bible Fun Club in her Middletown home, where children of all ages were welcomed with joy, laughter, and love. Donna had a special way of making everyone feel important, cared for, and at home. She truly was someone who was loved by all.

She found happiness in life’s simple and beautiful moments — cooking and hosting dinners for family and friends, tending to her flowers and garden, listening to worship and country music, spending cherished time baking and doing crafts with her beloved granddaughter Bella, and enjoying fun-filled summers at the beach and boardwalk surrounded by the people she loved most.

Donna was predeceased by her parents, Ken and May Hopfensperger of Bristol; her brother, Kenny Hopfensperger of Leonardo, New Jersey; and her beloved husband, Reuben Tirado of Toms River.

She leaves behind a family who adored her and will cherish her memory forever: her loving daughter, Tina Hedin and husband Eric of Beachwood; her treasured granddaughter, Bella Hedin — the love of her life — who affectionately called her “GaGa”; and her beloved granddog, Tito, whom Donna lovingly sang “I Love Tito Turner” to with endless affection.

Donna will also be deeply missed by her sisters and family: Nancy (Pete) DeNicola of Leonardo, New Jersey; Kathy (Ray) LaFleur of Bristol, Connecticut; Susan (Terry) Connelly of Orleans, Massachusetts; Laura Hopfensperger of Terryville, Connecticut; Karen (John) Aston of Bristol, Connecticut; her sister-in-law Linda Hopfensperger of Leonardo, New Jersey; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

Donna’s love, faith, and kindness touched countless lives, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Visitation will be held at Kedz Funeral Home, 1123 Hooper Ave., Toms River on Sunday, May 31, 2026 from 12:00 until the service time at 1:30.