Linda Marie Long, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of the Lord, passed peacefully into the arms of her Savior at the age of 75 on July 22nd in her home with family. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Roger Long, her loving parents, Hilda and Herbert Holley, her grandparents, Polie and Errlene Douglas, and Jim and Cora Holley whom she honored throughout her life with a spirit of grace, kindness, and unwavering faith.
Linda was born and raised in a home filled with love and Christian values. She spent her entire life grounded in her faith, faithfully serving the Lord and her community for nearly 60 years as a dedicated Sunday School and Vacation Bible School teacher. Countless children came to know the love of Christ through her gentle guidance, patient instruction, and joyful presence. She had a unique gift for teaching and a heart that overflowed with compassion for every soul who crossed her path.
“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” – Proverbs 22:6
Her legacy of love lives on in her family, who she cherished deeply. Linda is survived by her loving siblings, Mary Ann Fisher (Bob) and Steve Holley (Brenda); her three children, who were the joy of her heart—Lynn Parrish (Chad), Hollie Kidd (Benjie), and Jacob Long (Kalie); her longtime furry companion, Lola Bell; her treasured grandchildren, Rodney Parrish (Kaitlyn), Austin Kidd, Alisha Kidd, Alex Long, Lizzie Long, Eli Long, Brody Long, and Noah Long; and her precious great-grandchildren, Hope, Beau, Ellie, and Emrynn.
Linda was a woman who truly delighted in the simple blessings of life. She found joy in flowers that bloomed as vibrantly as her spirit. Her days were often spent watching the deer graze, hummingbirds flit and cardinals perch—symbols of God’s beauty and faithfulness. She welcomed everyone with open arms and a warm smile, often caring for many children in her home over the years, always offering love and a safe place to grow.
To know Linda was to know joy. She had a special gift for making each grandchild and great-grandchild feel like they were the most important person in the world. She took great pride and pleasure in spoiling them with love, treats, and an endless supply of hugs and wisdom. Her home was a haven—a place where laughter echoed and the Word of God was never far from reach.
A woman of profound and enduring faith, Linda lived by the Word and shared it freely. She believed firmly in the power of a godly foundation and built her life—and the lives of many others—on that truth.
Another scripture that echoes her spirit is:
“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” – Matthew 25:21
Linda Marie Long’s life was a testament to the love of Christ and the beauty of a soul who gives without expecting in return. Her memory will live on in every lesson taught, every flower planted, and every heart touched by her gentle hands and generous spirit.
Services to celebrate her life will be held at County Line Baptist Church in Randolph, 14249 Hwy 9 S Randolph MS 38864, on Sunday, July 27th.Visitation will be 10am to 2pm, the funeral will follow at 2pm and will be presided over by Brother Rocky Watts and Brother Chip Johnson. Pallbearers will be her six grandsons: Rodney, Austin, Alex, Eli, Brody, and Noah.
The honorary pallbearer will be her great-grandson, Beau.
Though our hearts grieve, we rejoice knowing she is now at peace, reunited with those she loved, and basking in the eternal glory of her Heavenly Father.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
– 2 Timothy 4:7
Rest in peace, our sweet Granny. Your light will never fade.
In honor of Linda’s vibrant personality and her love for the color red, the family kindly asks that all who attend the service wear red.
