Katrina "Trina" Murphy

Mary Katrina “Trina” Murphy, 54

After a brave and nearly two-year struggle with cancer, Mary Katrina “Trina” Murphy of Haines City peacefully entered into eternal life on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Somers Hospice House in Sebring surrounded by her family.  To be clear, Trina did not “lose her battle with cancer.”  She beat cancer by how she lived and the manner in which she lived.  She braved much for nearly two years and fought every day during that time with grace and humility.

Trina was born July 19, 1968 in Saint Petersburg, the second child of Fred and Mary Kate Shell and little sister to two-year old brother Tim.  Her family moved to Lake Wales in 1974 and she was a resident of the area ever since.  Trina graduated from Lake Wales High School in 1986 and Webber University in 1990.  After college, Trina managed Terri’s Hallmark Store in Lake Wales for 5 years before becoming a floral designer for Carlton’s Petals and Bows in downtown Lake Wales, where she became well-known in the community as she helped deliver flowers throughout the area.

Trina was a devout Christian and member of Trinity Baptist Church in Lake Wales, where she performed many behind the scenes tasks for years, always avoiding the spotlight and not seeking the praise of others.  Trina’s faith allowed her to say with the psalmist “For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even unto death.”

Trina was well-known for her kindness and reluctance to ever speak a negative word about anyone, even those who might deserve some harsh words.  Trina always maintained a cheerful disposition and never gave in to cynicism, even when hurt by others or her cancer.

Trina was preceded in death by her father Fred Shell in 2013.  She is survived by her daughter Katie Murphy (fiancé Joe Eldridge) of Haines City; daughter’s father Robert Murphy of North Carolina; mother Mary Kate Baggett Shell of Haines City; brother Tim Shell of Jacksonville; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She is also survived by countless friends and acquaintances who were touched and enriched by her admirable life.

A visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Thursday, October 6, 2022 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 7, 2022 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Pastor Michael Blare officiating.  Interment will follow at Lake Wales Memorial Gardens.