Donna Rita Bernard, a beloved daughter, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026. A beautiful angel in life, she has now returned to the Lord, where she is reunited with those who went before her.

Born on March 1, 1965, Donna's life was defined by her kind spirit and the warmth she extended to everyone she met. She was a constant source of light for her family and friends, and her memory will remain a blessing to all those who knew her. Donna had a contagious laugh, gave the very best hugs, and found great joy in music, which always brought a smile to her face. She adored her special babies and treasured every moment spent with them.

Donna is survived by her parents, Paul Bernard and partner, Janet Cullen, and Gloria Thomas and husband, Gary Thomas. Her legacy of love lives on through her sisters, Rebecca Hodges (partner, Glenn Sharp) and Jennifer Cipro (husband, Christopher Cipro). She was a proud and loving aunt to her four nephews and one niece, and a great-aunt to her three great-nephews and one great-niece.

Beyond her biological family, Donna is survived by her cherished family at her group home. To Donna, they were far more than just friends or caregivers—they were her family in every sense of the word, providing a home filled with love, laughter, and belonging. Her presence in their lives will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Donna also loved attending the CC Day Program, where the kind and compassionate staff took amazing care of her and filled her days with crafts, activities, laughter, and fun. The friendships she made and the joy she experienced there meant so much to her and to those who loved her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Adelard and Cecilia Winifred Bernard, and Armand and Rita Lafleche.
Funeral services will be held on June 12, 2026, at Waring-Sullivan Cherry Place Funeral Home in Fall River, MA. A viewing will take place at 10:00 AM, followed by a memorial service at 11:00 AM. Interment will be held on June 15, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. George Cemetery, Paige Hill Rd., Southbridge, MA.

While we mourn her passing, we find peace in knowing that Donna is at rest, surrounded by the eternal love of her family and her faith.