Verna Fay Long

Trusting in her faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, Verna Fay Long, 97 of Flanagan passed into his presence on Thursday morning March 18, 2021 at Flanagan Rehabilitation and Nursing Home, Flanagan.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 2 PM at the Salem Church, Gridley officiated by Pastor Stuart Rex.  Visitation will be held from 12:30 until 2 PM at the church prior to funeral services.  Interment will be at the Waldo Cemetery, rural Gridley.  Memorials may be given to Salem Church, Salem4Youth or to the donors choice.

Verna was born on August 9, 1923 in rural Flanagan to Bill and Mae (Saltzman) Yordy.  She married Chester Long on January 1, 1944 at the Waldo Mennonite Church, rural Flanagan.  He preceded her in death on June 20, 2000.

Surviving are daughter; Dianne (Dick) Matthews of Streator, sons; Tim (Karen) Long of Franklin, Ohio and Ted Long of Sarasota, Florida, seven grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren, her twin sister Merna Holaway of Watseka and 1 “daughter of heart” Sharon (Hal) Pettegrew of Lititz, PA and their 3 children and 9 grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by a sister Aldine Hartzler and a granddaughter.

Verna spent 30 years teaching 2^nd grade, 6^th grade and heading the Learning Center in Flanagan and another 18 years working as secretary and receptionist in her son-in-law insurance agency.  She was a member of the Salem Church and sang in the choir, taught Sunday School, and often graciously entertained guests.  Verna was loving and fun, a good listener, a friend and a mentor to many.  She was loved by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and friends and respected by all.  Verna will be deeply missed.