Gayle Eileen Whitford

Gayle Eileen Whitford, 73, passed away on December 1, 2020. She was born June 17, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio to parents John and Doreen Crowley. She was the only sister to four brothers, John “Jack”, James “Jimmy” along with “the twins” Kenneth and Dennis.

She moved to Phoenix, AZ at 9yrs old where she attended Catalina Elementary and graduated Alhambra High School, class of 65’. Gayle not only leaves us with the image of a bold, red mane of hair that matched her equally vibrant soul along with a pair of large framed sunglasses atop her head…she also leaves us with a legacy of love, strength, fairness and service to others. Gayle made a career of working in the beauty industry and valley salons to include Revlon, Broadway Southwest, With Love B’Anne and Cutters Hair. She then pursued her true passion as an esthetician at the Pointe Tocasierra Spa and Salon for almost 20 years before COVID 19 impacted their services in March. Gayle had a talent for connecting with people from all backgrounds and all walks of life while providing “good skin” and sage wisdom to all she encountered. Those of us who loved her will never forget her tenacity, wit, humor, intuition and the intense, undying love for her family and friends.

A mother lion to all of those she considered in her “pack”. She would always make time for pep talks, brain storming and needed reminders of our greatness and purpose. She was a lover of music and the first one on the dance floor. She was a true Gemini, a master storyteller, pseudo lawyer, advocate, therapist and private detective all in one spirit.

Gayle leaves behind her beloved children Aaron and Amber Heard and their father, James Heard whom she remained close to throughout her lifespan. Lest we not forget the true loves of her life and a great source of pride, her grandson’s, Savion and Harrison. Her love for them will be eternal and will be felt by

them always. Gayle touched so many of our lives in so many ways that deserve to be celebrated, but in consideration of the health and safety of others, a celebration of life service will be postponed until after the first of the year. Condolences and hugs from home maybe expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com.