Brenda Gail-Ellis Beggerly

Brenda Gail Beggerly passed away at her home in Tyler, Texas, on May 22, 2026, just two days after celebrating her 69th birthday. Born on May 20, 1957, in Pensacola, Florida, to Betty Ellis and Jimmy Shofner, Brenda was lovingly raised and later adopted by her father, John T. Ellis, Jr. Brenda lived a life defined by compassion, generosity, laughter, and a heart that made everyone feel loved. Our world feels profoundly incomplete without her. She was the person you could always count on — thoughtful, dependable, wise, and forever ready to offer encouragement, comfort, and medical advice when you needed it most.

Brenda devoted more than 38 years of her life to nursing, caring for others with the same kindness and grace she showed her family and friends every day. She had a joyful spirit and treasured life’s simple pleasures — cheering on Alabama football, watching her favorite movie Mamma Mia!, reading, cross-stitching, traveling internationally, and making cherished Christmas trips with the “Galleria Girls.” Above all, Brenda loved Disney World, where she found so much happiness and magic. She was also a faithful member of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Tyler, Texas.

Brenda was preceded in death by her father, John T. Ellis, Jr., and her brother, Jimmy Shofner, Jr.

She leaves behind her beloved husband of 42 years, Jim Beggerly; her children, Chris Beggerly (Kimberly), Lysa Fulbright (Michael), Gina Lynn Harrison, and Sara Beggerly; her mother, Betty Ellis; her biological father, Jimmy Shofner; her sisters, Debbie Gable (Donnie) and Gena DeWinter (Michael); and her brother, Robert Nelson (Donna). Brenda was a proud and loving grandmother to seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She also adored her many nieces and nephews and treasured the friendships she built throughout her life — especially her dear friend, Joan Ford, who was a constant source of love and support through the years.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Brenda’s life during a visitation on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. at Tyler Memorial Funeral Home in Tyler, Texas. Officiating the service will be Father Christian. Burial will follow at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Honorary pallbearers will be Robert Nelson, Donnie Gable, Marty Gable, Tyge Nelson, Chris Estes, and Brad Hayes.

Brenda’s love, warmth, and beautiful spirit will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Though she is no longer with us, the kindness she shared so freely will continue to shine through the countless lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.