July 9, 1928 – May 5, 2026

Rena was born in 1928, in Lac Vert, Saskatchewan, to Verna Pansy McClure (née Barns) and William Russell McClure.

Part of Rena’s childhood was spent in Sudbury, Ontario before her family later settled in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, where she met and married Walder Brunton Murphy, her beloved husband of 59 years until Walder’s passing. Together they raised three children, Brian Murphy (Peggy), Judy Murphy and Terry Murphy (Terri). Rena was a proud grandmother to Darcy, Devin, Amber, Heidi, Shaun, Kelly, Heather, Joshua, and Daniel. She was also blessed with 18 great-grandchildren: Jessi, Dylan, Sarah, Tyce, Jayde, Jace, Emma, Avry, Laykin, Madison, Cael, Cayden, River, Charlotte, Micah, Theo, Amaiya and Malakai; and one additional cherished great-grandchild.

Rena was predeceased by her husband Walder and daughter Judy.

Rena devoted her life to caring for and nurturing others, especially her family. She played a central role in the lives of her children and grandchildren, faithfully attending birthdays, concerts, school events, and family celebrations for those living in Prince Albert. She was immensely proud of each of her nine grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren.

A visit to Grandma Rena’s home often meant discovering a new toy waiting for you, along with her special treats — ice cream sandwiches and Vico. She showed her love through quiet acts of generosity and steadfast presence more than through words, and her family always knew how deeply they were treasured.

Rena was a caregiver not only to her parents & Walder’s parents, but to neighbors that required help. She was dedicated to her children, always having meals & clothing ready for them for school. One memory of Brian’s is how his mom could walk numerous blocks to town yet be back in time to have his lunch on the table. As the family grew with grandchildren, Rena continued to help by babysitting which also included treating them with sometimes a toy, sometimes candy or her special sugar sandwich that they enjoyed.

Rena loved flowers and birds, but especially Pansies, that she planted every year and her beloved Wrens. Every spring Rena kept her eye out for the Wrens to return and make their nest in the birdhouses she had in her yard. She kept us posted when the baby’s hatched. To her that was when spring officially arrived and she was able to enjoy watching them all summer.

Rena missed Terry, Terri and grandchildren when they moved to Regina along with Judy and her children when they moved to Moose Jaw but was always excited when they came for visits. She was able to spend the last six years of her life with Terry, Terri and their family when she moved to Regina area and was closer to Judy and her children for visits more often.

While in care, Rena passed away peacefully at the age of 97, surrounded by her loved ones.

Rena will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held close in the hearts of her family and all who knew her.

Rena will be laid to rest beside her husband Walder at Prince Albert Memorial Gardens.

• Date : 2026-05-06