Gayle Ann Mulford

Gayle Ann Mulford, 83, of Bonita Springs, FL, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, in Naples, FL. Born on May 3, 1942, in Cleveland, OH, she was the beloved daughter of the late Joseph Spisak and Veloria A. (née Milea). In her youth, Gayle married Richard E. Mulford, Sr., on February 8, 1964 and together they began their family. A devoted stay-at-home mother, she took great joy in raising her two sons. As her boys grew older, Gayle pursued higher education and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1984 from The Ohio State University. She then pursued her teaching passion in 1984 as a language arts teacher, first in Lima, OH, at the Liberty Arts Magnet (K-8) and later at Bonita Springs Middle School after moving to Bonita Springs in 1989. She retired in 1999 after a fulfilling career shaping the lives of countless students. Gayle had a deep love for life’s simple pleasures. She treasured walking the beach with her husband and grandchildren, searching for shells and shark teeth. She was an avid fan of crossword puzzles, especially the New York Times crossword, and was known for her sharp wit and determination. In her community at Eagle Pointe Condominium, Gayle became the heart of social life, joyfully organizing events and gatherings for her neighbors. She is survived by her sons, Richard E. Mulford, Jr. (Julie) of Park City, UT and Robert Mulford (Jennifer) of Palm Harbor, FL; her four cherished grandchildren who lovingly called her “GG,” Sam Mulford, Annie Mulford, Chloe Stafford (Isaiah), and Brady Mulford; and a soon-to-be great-grandchild, Isla Stafford, expected January 20, 2026. She is also survived by her three brothers, Joseph Spisak (Sherry) of Cortland, NY, William Spisak (Patti) of Berwyn, IL, and Jeffrey Spisak (Christine) of Safety Harbor, FL. Gayle was preceded in death by her parents and her devoted husband of 51 years, Richard E. Mulford, Sr. who passed away on April 20, 2015. Private services will be held by her family. Memorial donations in her memory may be made to St. Leo the Great Catholic Church 28290 Beaumont Rd., Bonita Springs, FL 34134. To sign her guest register or leave online condolences, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are in the care of Shikany's Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Gayle Ann Mulford

May 3, 1942 - September 14, 2025