Donald Hedleston

Donald Herbert Hedleston, 88, of Plantation, Florida, passed away on February 18, 2026. Born on September 18, 1937, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, he was the son of Willie Hedleston and Debbie Hedleston. Donald grew up in Fort Lauderdale, where he attended and graduated from Fort Lauderdale High School.

For 37 years, Don dedicated his career to Florida Power and Light, where he was affectionately known as "DOC" by his colleagues. Throughout his life, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Elaine Hedleston, his sister Joan Rick, daughters Wanda Smith and Julie Fernandez, granddaughters Christina Fernandez, Alyssa Kamal, and Jennifer Smith, grandson Tyler Tiedt, and great-granddaughters Mackenzie Fernandez, Aria Kamal, and Mia Kamal, along with numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Willie and Debbie Hedleston, his brother William “Bill” Hedleston, his son Joseph Hedleston, nephews, William "Biff" Hedleston, Ryan Rick, and nieces, Robin Rick, Donna Lee, and April.

A memorial service to celebrate Don's life will take place on March 1, 2026, at 2 PM at T.M. Ralph Funeral Home, located at 7001 NW 4th ST, Plantation, FL 33317.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in his memory. Donald’s legacy will continue to live on through the love and cherished memories shared by all who knew him.