Donna Jane Hepinstall, 58, of Barre, Vermont, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026.

Born on November 16, 1967, in Rochester, New York, Donna was the daughter of Barbara Holmsten and the late James Hepinstall. She was later blessed to have her stepfather, the late Leo Holmsten, become an important part of her life.

Donna was a devoted, hardworking, and compassionate woman who dedicated many years of her career to Keurig Dr Pepper. She was admired for her strong work ethic, genuine kindness, and the care she extended to everyone around her. Whether with family, friends, coworkers, or strangers, Donna had a remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and loved.

Her generosity, empathy, and infectious laugh brightened every room she entered. She was known for always putting others before herself, offering a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, thoughtful advice, and unwavering support. Even through life's greatest losses and heartbreaks, Donna faced each day with strength, courage, and a positive outlook that inspired those around her. Her quick wit, sassy sense of humor, and smart-mouthed charm were among the many qualities that made her unforgettable and deeply loved.

Donna's greatest joy was her family. She especially treasured her daughter, Jessica, and looked forward with excitement to becoming "Gigi" to her future grandson, Odin James. Donna had an extraordinary love for animals throughout her life. She adored her beloved dogs, Ruben and Teddy, and carried that same love to her faithful companion, Brownie, who became her constant sidekick and best friend. She also proudly claimed the title of "G-ma" to her grand-pups and grand-cats—Stephi, Scoshie, Nova, Pirate, Lui, and Terri—and was a devoted dog and cat aunt to Zoey, Gus, Tug Boat, Max, Ruby, Thunder, Baker, Lola, Aggie, Hyde, Kelso, Tim, and Richard. Every animal that crossed Donna's path was welcomed with the same love, affection, and gentle heart she shared so freely with everyone.

Donna is survived by her loving mother, Barbara Holmsten; her daughter, Jessica Hepinstall-Hintz and her partner, Gus Linnebur; and her future grandson, Odin James.

She is also survived by her sisters, Lisel Krezinski and her husband, John Krezinski, and Meaghan Holmsten and her partner, Sara Miller; her niece, Alexa Horrell, her husband, Hobie Joe Horrell, and their son, Holden Horrell; her nephew, Daniel Krezinski and his wife, Ivy Krezinski; her stepsister, Kara Bloom Holmsten; her stepbrother, Dan Holmsten and his wife, Tina Holmsten; her step-nieces and step-nephew, Peter Holmsten, Abby Holmsten, and Phoebe Holmsten; as well as many beloved extended family members, dear friends, coworkers, and the countless animals whose lives she touched.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, James Hepinstall; her stepfather, Leo Holmsten; her life partner and the father of her daughter, Jeff Hintz; and her early life partner, Burt.

Donna's memory will live on through the countless lives she touched with her compassion, laughter, generosity, and unconditional love. She left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her warmth, strength, humor, and unwavering devotion to her family, friends, and animals will never be forgotten. Though her presence will be deeply missed, the love she shared so freely will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at 84 Simplicity Acres, Middlesex, Vermont 05602. Family and friends are invited to gather to celebrate Donna's life, share memories, and honor the love and joy she brought to so many.