Brenda Sue Earle, 73, of Ephrata, a beloved mother and dedicated member of her community, passed away on February 4, 2026, at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital. Brenda was born on October 8, 1952, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania to the late Ralph E. and Anna K. (Martin) Bankus.

She attended McCaskey High School before progressing to Mount Joy Vo-tech, where she obtained her Commercial Driver's License through the trucking program, laying the foundation for her career in transportation. She began her professional journey in the transportation industry, starting her trucking career with Sindall Transport in New Holland. She later made a significant move to Florida and has lived in Jacksonville for the last 22 years, where she worked for MTI Trucking and Maudlin Trucking, illustrating her commitment and passion for her work. Brenda proudly retired in 2017, after a long and successful career, showcasing her resilience and dedication to service. She had a wide array of interests that brought her joy and engagement throughout her life. Gardening, canning, and cooking were among her passions, reflecting her love for nurturing both plants and family traditions. Moreover, Brenda was a volunteer firefighter with the Lampeter Fire Department, illustrating her commitment to serving and protecting her community. In her later years, she found great pleasure in puzzling over complicated puzzles, a testament to her keen intellect and problem-solving spirit. She will be remembered for her unwavering strength, her kindness, and the love she shared with those around her. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her children and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Brenda is survived by her four children: Marie (Dwaine Stauffer) Acosta, Faith (Martin) Smith, Terry (Amanda) L. Duffy, and Daniel E. Duffy; several grandchildren; and three great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her parents, Ralph E. and Anna K. (Martin) Bankus.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 14, at 11:00 a.m. at Rissers Mennonite Church at 8360 Elizabethtown Rd, Elizabethtown, PA 17022, where family, friends, and community members can gather to celebrate her life and share in collective remembrance.