Our loving mother, Rosemary Long, 88, of Ottumwa died June 3, 2023 at home surrounded by her family.
She was born July 14, 1934 in Ottumwa to William and Orianna Prather Granby. She married James Nelson Long on January 14, 1950 and he preceded her in death on February 14, 2008.
Rosemary spent her entire life caring for their home and was devoted to Jimmy and their family. She enjoyed dancing, gardening, watching birds at the feeder, singing, embroidery, walking, making flea market crafts and was always ready for a road trip. Rosemary and Jimmy were lifetime members of the Ottumwa Saddle Club and they enjoyed spending time with their family and friends. She loved a touching sermon and singing hymns in her beautiful soprano voice. She most recently attended the morning services at Riverview Community Church and was involved in a sewing group and bible study at Last Days Ministries.
Surviving are 4 daughters, Mona McManus (Bill), Marcia Stansberry (Terry), Trina VerSteegh (Dave) and Lori (Tony) Dixon; a son, James “Jay” (Christina) Long; 14 grandchildren, Sheila, Aaron, Junior, Brian, Clint, Ben, Mia, Casey, Kadie, Becky, Robin, Joseph, Jacob and Noah; 39 great grandchildren; 24 great-great grandchildren; 13 step great grandchildren; a brother, Jon (Marion) Granby; a multitude of extended family; a special friend and companion, Lee Johnson.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings, William, Annabelle, Bette, Wanita and Evelyn.
Funeral services will be 10 a.m. Friday, June 9th at Reece Funeral Home with Pastor Doug Glosser officiating. Burial will be in Memorial Lawn Cemetery.
Visitation with the family present will be one hour prior to the service on Friday at the funeral home.
Memorials may be made to the family.
