Donna Pondaco

Donna, 52, of Howell, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 23, 2026. Donna attended Neptune Township High School and went on to work at several establishments both locally and out of state. She dedicated 15 years to McDonald’s in Cincinnati, Ohio, where she worked her way up through the management ranks before relocating back to New Jersey in 2025.

Donna had a special connection with everyone she encountered. Whether through a brief conversation or a lifelong relationship, she always made time to listen. She was a loyal and devoted mother to Darryl Simms Jr.,18, of Howell, NJ.

Donna was predeceased by her mother and best friend, Rosemary Ganley; her brother, Frankie Pondaco; her father, Dominick Pondaco; and her stepfather, James Ganley. She is survived by her brothers, James Ganley, John Ganley, Patrick Ganley, Dominick Pondaco, and Michael Pondaco; her sister, Mary Pondaco; and her stepmother, Moreen Pondaco. She was also a loving sister-in-law to Corrin Ganley, Karen Ganley, and Jacqueline Ganley.

Donna took great pride in being a loving aunt to Jacob Ganley, Robert Vanarsdale, Emily, Jack, Madilyn, Griffin, Braydin Ganley, Kayla, Gabriella Cervone, Anthony, Franki, Angelina, Elijah, and Giovanni. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A celebration of life will be held for family and friends on April 17, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at 2 Main Street, Avon-by-the-Sea, NJ 07717

Arrangements are entrusted to Jersey Shore Cremation Service, 43 Taylor Avenue, Manasquan, NJ - JerseyShoreCremation.com