Brenda Rudd Murphy Dies At 72

Brenda “Gail” Rudd Murphy, age 72, of Clewiston, Florida, passed away on November 19, 2025, following a brief and challenging health struggle. Born and raised in Clewiston, Gail built a beautiful life rooted in family, service, and faith.

Gail was married to the love of her life, Mitch Murphy, for 27 wonderful years. She was a devoted mother who loved her children with all her heart: Alethea (Dan) Hansen and Joshua (Alessandra) Byrd. She was endlessly proud of her grandchildren Daniel Hansen, Bella Byrd, and Sadira Byrd. She also cherished her “children-in-love,” Alisha (Rob) Pratt, Leann (Nick) Grau, and Brock Murphy, along with her treasured “grandchildren-in-love,” Julia and Bobby Pratt, Aiden, Layla, and Gage Grau, and Brody and Bristoll Murphy.

Gail dedicated 26 years to the local school system as a paraprofessional, retiring in 2017. Her former students often stopped her to share how grateful they were that she had been their teacher. She was also a lifelong florist, creating beautiful designs—especially her beloved “Gail wreaths”—at Clewiston Florist & Gifts, where customers adored both her artistry and her warm, welcoming smile.

She loved life’s simple joys: staying up late with a good book, tending her flower beds, soaking up the sunshine on Fort Myers Beach, and collecting seashells during summer trips to Marco Island. She enjoyed playing Yahtzee and Sequence, and nothing made her happier than time spent with her family. Last summer, she joyfully fulfilled her dream of taking an Alaska cruise—an experience she treasured.

Gail was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Emily Rudd, her sister Diane Fletcher, and her brother Jeff Rudd. She is survived by her brothers Dougie Rudd and Steve Rudd, and her sisters Gwen Hare and Debbie Keen.

Gail had a tremendous heart for Jesus, and her family takes comfort in knowing exactly where she is today. Her hugs, her beautiful smile, and her gentle, loving presence will be deeply missed. She earned her wings, and though our hearts ache, we know this is only “until we meet again.”