With grace, and surrounded by the love of her cherished family, Donna J. Perreira entered eternal rest on August 18, 2025, in Long Branch, NJ. Her devoted husband, Winston, and beloved son, Anthony, were lovingly by her side.
Donna’s life was a radiant tapestry woven with love, laughter, faith, and compassion. She lived with a joyful heart and an unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her legacy is one of warmth, kindness, and unforgettable memories that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Affectionately known as “Grandma Donna,” a name gifted by her grandchildren and embraced by the entire community, Donna was a beacon of love and care. Her nurturing spirit touched countless lives, and her presence brought comfort and joy wherever she went.
Donna had a broad career, spanning multiple disciplines; however, some of her most memorable moments came when working at Sears and Roebuck Catalog, where her children often assisted her, and at Steinbach, where she met her devoted husband and partner of 35 years, Winston Perreira. Her most fulfilling role, however, was serving as a paraprofessional in the Long Branch school system, where she made a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike until her retirement in 2024 at the young age of 81. Working with children was where she truly found her calling.
A proud learner, Donna earned her associate’s degree later in life—a testament to her vibrant spirit and willingness to always grow. She was known for her spirited stories, exuberant laugh, unmatched work ethic, and a passion for shopping. You could always find Donna at work an hour before the start time or at the stores with Winston every weekend. Her love for family was endless, and her signature purple lipstick kisses were a playful and loving mark of her affection. Her story telling had no boundaries, as she loved sharing her childhood memories with her very close-knit family. And who could ever forget her long beautiful nails, and her magnificent wrists adorned with her gold bracelets.
Donna was extremely proud of her family, noted by the many stories of their achievements that she shared with anyone who would listen. And she did not mind adding the role that she played in helping with their achievements. Even more, her family was extremely proud of her, knowing all the obstacles that she overcame to ensure that those she loved would have the very best.
Donna was preceded in death by her beloved mother, Francis Alston and stepfather, Edward Alston; her father, Harold Cooper and stepmother, Frances Cooper; her sister, Juanita Morgan; her brother, Harold “Pudgy” Cooper; her beloved daughter and first child, Tammy Canty; and many other family members and loved ones who we are sure were waiting with open arms to welcome her.
She is survived by her faithful and adoring husband and partner of 35 years, Winston Perreira; her loving son, Anthony Smith; her treasured grandchildren Laura Bland, Taj Bewley, Taylor, Kyle, and Alston Smith; her adored great-granddaughters Layla and Michayla Bland; her beloved sisters Hollis Cooper and Lisa Cooper; her dear cousins whom she spent much time with, Nellie Harper, Doreen Wright, and Carolyn McCain; her bonus daughters, Melissa Skreenock, Amanda Perry Sims and Odessa Perry Byrd; her step-daughters, Bonita Perreira and Ita Perreira and their loving children; her sisters in-law, Debbie, June, Cheryl, Roxanne, Joy, Orlene, Claudette and Patsy; her bonus grandchildren, Michael Bland, Jordan Allen and Jill Jablecki; her first nieces, Taminka Mills and Cassundra Hart Smith; and a host of cousins, nieces & nephews, great nieces & great nephews, brothers in-law, God children and many more. Donna also leaves behind a cherished circle of extended family members, and lifelong friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts. And let’s not forget the many, many children and adults that she touched over the years who affectionately call her Grandma Donna.
Donna’s warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love were gifts to all who knew her. Her light will continue to shine through the lives she touched, and the love she showed ALL will be remembered daily.
Rest in heavenly peace